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Best Places to Go in Thailand with Family

Here is the list of best places to visit in thailand with family:, quick navigation.

Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi Islands is a dream destination that every family across the globe longs for! An archipelago of six islands, the Phi Phi Islands lures tourists with their surreal beauty of pristine white sand beaches, mangrove forests and the stunning limestone cliffs. The islands are the best places to visit in Thailand with family to get sun-kissed while lazing around at the shores and to have fun with a plethora of water sports like snorkeling, deep sea diving, and swimming and witness the rich aquatic life. Location : Between Phuket and the Straits of Malacca Timings : 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM Also Checkout -  Singapore Malaysia Thailand Tour Package                               Bangkok Trip Packages

Top Experiences To Do in Phi Phi

Phang Nga Bay

Also known as  Ao Phang Nga National Park, Phang Nga Bay is a must-visit-in-a-lifetime destination. With pristine emerald green watered beaches where limestone cliff capped with dark green mosses pop out, the bay is a scene right out of a movie. The numerous caves, archaeological sites, lagoons, and coral reefs make this serene land bustle with tourist activities. James Bond Island and Koh Panyee are the major tourist attractions here. Location : Phang Nga Bay lies between southern Thailand's mainland and Phuket Island Click Here To Book:  Rafting In Phang Nga Bay Also Checkout:  Things To Do In Phang Nga Bay

Phuket Island

The largest island in Thailand, Phuket is mirth of those who look forward to a beach holiday. The serene beaches of bordered by powdery white sands with dramatic backdrops of distant rainforests are just so ideal for the picture-perfect moments. The exotic collection of coral reefs and abundant marine life lure travelers from far and wide. The beaches at Phuket like Patong, Rawai,  Mai Khao, Karon, Kata Yai, Kamala, and Kata Noi are an absolute delight for sun lounging. You can also indulge in a plethora of fun-filled water activities like swimming, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Location : Southern Provinces (Changwat) of Thailand Must Checkout -  Bangkok Honeymoon Packages For Couple                               Phuket Packages

Top Experiences To Do in Phuket

Thailand's Ayutthaya Temple

Once a flourishing city, Ayutthaya today is a city of ancient ruins, forts, monasteries and temples and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wat Chaiwatthanaram is the royal monastery and is built in Khmer style. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is famous for the white Buddha statue draped in saffron robes and Wat Lokayasutharam is popular for the huge reclining Buddha.  Wat Na Phra Men was earlier built as a cremation place but is famous today for its architectural magnificence. There are many other Buddhist temples in Ayutthaya that tell untold tales of the glorious empire that once happened here. Location : 76 kilometres north of Bangkok Timings : Most of the temple in Ayutthaya are open from 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM on all day Checkout and Book:  Ayutthaya Day Trip From Bangkok

Railay Beach

Railay Beach is a perfect respite for those seeking a day trip away from the usually crowded beaches of Thailand. Railay Beach is no less than a page from an animated cartoon movie with limestone cliffs soaring high and offering spectacular views of the ocean around. At Railay Beach, indulge in a number of adventurous activities like snorkeling and cliff climbing and enjoy a unique experience! You can explore the Diamond Cave which is famous for stalactites, stalagmites, columns and is one of the top Places to visit in Thailand with family. Location : Between the city of Krabi and Ao Nang in Thailand Best Offers on:  Rock Climbing at Railay Beach Read More:  Things To Do In Thailand

Chanthaburi

Just about a few kilometers from Bangkok lies this quaint riverside village, Chanthaburi along the Chanthaburi river, popular amongst tourists for its orchards, mangosteen and durian in particular and the night market famous for its gems shops. There is a strong religious vibe in Chanthaburi that you can feel in places like  Wat Phai Lom and Wat Khao Sukim. The stunning waterfalls like Pliew Waterfalls and Trok Nong Waterfall and the densely forested Khao Khitchakut National Park are a feast for the eyes! Location : East of Thailand, on the banks of the Chanthaburi River Check This Out:  Islands In Thailand Must Book -  Phuket Packages For Couple

Koh Samui is one of the best cosmopolitan beach resort islands that has everything a traveler can dream of! It could be picture-perfect palm tree fringed beaches, post luxury resorts in incredible sea views or the hair-raising activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, elephant trekking, etc available at the island, Koh Samui guarantees a Thailand holiday like never before. Get a flavor of the local culture by shopping at Lamai Night Walking Street and Chaweng Night Market. The eclectic nightlife combined with the lip-smacking Thai cuisine will make the reveler in you long for a prolonged vacation. Location : Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus Book & Checkout -  Thailand Tour Packages From Coimbatore                                   Thailand Honeymoon Packages From Delhi

Top Experiences To Do in Koh Samui

Hua Hin has been a tourist destination since ancient times when the Thai kings and royal members headed towards Hua Hin to relax and enjoy by the beachside.  Ratchapak Park, a historically themed park with magnificent statues of seven Thai kings is the prime attraction of Hua Hin. The brightly colored Wat Bor Fai temple is the second major tourist spot here. The temples in the vicinity can be collectively visited to make your Hua Hin trip more enjoyable. If you are looking for Places to visit in Thailand with family, head towards The Hutsadin Elephant Foundation where you can spend a few hours feeding, giving a bath and playing with the friendly yet huge mammals. Location : Southern Thai province of Prachuap Khiri Khan You May Also Book -  Bangkok Family Tour Packages                                       Family Tours Phuket

Top Experiences To Do in Hua Hin

If you thought Thailand is all about just beaches and party life, the city of Chiang Mai is sure to prove you wrong! Perched in the mountainous terrain of northern Thailand, the Old City portrays Thailand's rich heritage with vestiges of walls. The ancient Buddhist temples like the 14th-century Wat Phra Singh and 15th-century Wat Chedi Luang takes every traveler back on a time travel. The city is also one of the best shopping destinations in Thailand and the shopping areas like Chiang Mai Walking Street, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Wualai Walking Street and Bor Sang Village spoil you with choices! Location : Chiang Mai Province is in Northern Thailand. Book & Checkout -  Bangkok Tour Packages From Kolkata                                   Bangkok Pattaya Package From Mumbai

Top Experiences To Do in Chiang Mai

Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

Sea Life Bangkok Ocean Park is the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia that promises unparalleled insight into the aquatic kingdom as close as you can. Apart from the Giant Spider Crabs, Giant Pacific Octopus, Stingray Sharks, African Penguins, and Starfishes, one can also witness seahorses, frogs, and jellyfish. If you are tired of just watching, whoop up your excitement quotient with a 4D cinema or an enthralling glass-bottomed boat ride or a walk through the Ocean Tunnel. If you are looking for places to visit in Thailand with family, we bet you will love this place. Location : 991 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand Timings : 10.00 AM to 9.00 PM on all days Price : Adult 2500 Baht / 5650 INR           Children [3-11 years] 2000 Baht / 4520 INR Checkout and Book:  Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World Tickets Recommended Read:  Resorts In Thailand

Art in Paradise

This popular art gallery in Thailand is not any gallery where you see pieces of art hung on the wall. Art in Paradise is the first 3D art gallery in Thailand where spellbinding 3D murals adorn the walls. Keep your cameras fully charges as every piece of art is a perfect backdrop for amazing interactive pictures. Bangkok Location : 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd, Khwaeng Din Daeng, Khet Din Daeng, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand Timings : 10 AM to 10 PM Mon-Sun Pattaya Location : Pattayasaisong Rd, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand Timings : 9.00 AM to 9.00 PM Mon-Sun Chiang Mai Location : 199/9 Changklan Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand Timings : 9.00 AM to 7.00 PM Checkout Best Offers on:  Art In Paradise Bangkok Tickets Suggested Read:  Places To Visit In Bangkok and Pattaya

Dream World Theme Park

One of the best amusement parks in Thailand, Dream World enthralls tourists and locals with its thrilling land rides like Speedy Mouse and the Haunted Mansion and a countless number of fun-filled water rides. The miniature creations of the 7 Wonders of the World form great backdrops for social media pictures and the roller coaster rides at the park leave you with a hair raising thrill. Feeling the scorching sun outside, get into the Snow Town and enjoy an amazing sled ride. Location : Tambon Bang Yitho, Amphoe Thanyaburi, Chang Wat Pathum Thani 12130, Thailand Timings : 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM Mon-Fri and 10.00 AM to 07.00 PM Sat-Sun Price : Walk-in Rate (Cash Payment on Arrival): 900 Baht / 2030 INR per person            Snow Town (Buy On Spot): 180 Baht / 410 INR per person             One Hour Water Fun (Buy on Spot): 120 Baht / 270 INR per person Click Here To Book:  Dream World Bangkok Tickets Also Checkout:  Nightlife In Thailand

Madame Tussauds

A visit to Madame Tussauds Museum is an awe-inspiring experience where you can witness and click cherishable pictures with the life-size wax replicas of famous Americans & historic icons. This themed gallery lets you touch, hug and even kiss all the wax statues and so you can even appear on The Oprah Show, enjoy a Kung Fu session with Bruce Lee, or have a relaxed conversation over espresso with George Clooney! Location : Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand Timings : 10.00 AM - 8.00 PM Price : INR 800 per adult and INR 600 per child Best Offers on:  Madame Tussauds Bangkok Tickets Read More:  Markets In Thailand

Best of Bangkok

Muay Thai Live

Muay Thai LIve is a marvelous boxing show that enlightens you on the ancient martial arts of Thailand and Muay Thai heroes with a 90-minutes action-packed show choreographed by the director, Ekachial Uekrongtham. Though the show is choreographed, the punches, slams and kicks performed look absolutely real and will make you go dizzy. Location : 2194 CharoenKrung Rd, Bang Kho Laem, Khet Bang Kho Laem, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand Timings : 8.00 M to 9.30 PM on all days except Monday. Monday is a holiday. Checkout and Book:   Max Muay Thai Stadium Pattaya Tickets Planning A Honeymoon Trip to Thailand, Click Here To Book Our Thailand Honeymoon Packages Now!

Siam Park City

This oldest amusement in Thailand is still one of the most loved amusement parks where a day is just not enough to enjoy the water and adventure rides. The Water Park here includes jolly rides like Speed Slider, Siam Lagoon, Super Spiral, Flowing Pool and many more and the Adventure Park is a set of exotic land rides grouped as X-Zone, Family World, Small World, Fantasy World. The theme park also has a number of dining options that let you smack in between the rides. Location : 203 Suan Siam Rd, Khwaeng Khan Na Yao, Khet Khan Na Yao, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10230, Thailand Timings : 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM on all days Price : 1-Day Ticket for Adult - 25 USD / 1750 INR            1-Day Ticket for kids of height from 101 to 130 cm - USD 20 / 1400 INR.             Kids less than 101 cm can enjoy free tickets Click Here To Book:  Siam Amazing Park Tickets Recommended Read:  Thailand Island Hopping

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Being the largest floating market in Thailand, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market bustles with market activities and gives an insight into the Thai culture portraying the age-old market practices of Thailand. Fresh vegetables, fruits, groceries, and food are the primary things sold in the floating markets. Along the banks of the Damnoen Saduak canal’s banks are shops selling local handicrafts, assorted silks, handcrafted jewelry, trinkets, and souvenirs. Location :  Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi, Thailand Timings : 7.00 AM to 5.00 PM Mon-Sun Checkout Best Offers on:  Bangkok Floating Market Tour Also Checkout:  Floating Markets In Bangkok

Best of Phuket

Safari World

Safari World is an open zoo that includes Marine Park and Safari Park. The Safari Park lets you enjoy an adventure trip on your own car into the park and explore the wildlife at the park like herds of Giraffes, Zebras, tigers and lions face-to-face. The highlight of the Safari Park is the Tiger Feeding scheduled at 10:00 AM. So, arrive a little early by 9.00 AM so that you don't miss this spectacular show. At Marine Park, you can watch the Sea Lion Show and Dolphin Show. Location : 99 Thanon Panya Intra, Khwaeng Sam Wa Tawan Tok, Khet Khlong Sam Wa, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10510, Thailand Timings : 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM on weekdays and 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM on weekends Price : 1000 Baht / 2260 INR per person Click Here To Book:  Safari World Bangkok Tickets Also Checkout:  Places To Visit In Thailand With Friends

Doi Suthep Temple

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most reverential place of worship for Thai people. At the temple, you need to climb a flight of 306 steps or take a cable car to reach the temple built atop the Doi Suthep mountain. The temple promises stunning views of the city beneath and the temple complex comprises of pavilions, pagodas, statues, and wiharns. The tranquility of the Ubosot prayer hall creates a strong spiritual aura and is one of the not-to-be-missed places to visit in Thailand with family Location :  Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand Timings : 6 AM to 6 PM Checkout Best Offers on:  Chiang Mai City & Temples Half Day Tour Also Checkout:  Temples In Thailand

Fantasia Lagoon

Fantasia Lagoon is one of the well-kept water parks of Thailand with a fair number of water rides which predominantly consists of slides. The balloon shows, magic shows and other fun games are blockbuster hits amongst kids. With pricing just 100 per Baht per adult for a full day, the Fantasia Lagoon is undeniably one of the cheapest places to visit in Thailand with family! Location : Bang Khae Nuea, Bang Khae, Bangkok 10160, Thailand Timings : 10.30 AM to 8.30 PM on weekdays and 10.00 AM to 8.30 PM on weekends Price : 100 Baht / 230 INR per adult and 80 Baht / 180 INR per child Check This Out:  Waterfalls Near Bangkok Book Now -  Phuket Tour Packages From Kolkata

Best of Pattaya

Asiatique Sky

Standing tall at about 60 meters from ground level, Asiatique Sky is a giant Ferris Wheel. The Asiatique Sky Ferris Wheel has 41 comfortable air-conditioned cabins and 1 VIP cabin and a ride on Asiatique Sky takes you on three rotations. The ride offers stunning bird's eye views view of the vibrant Bangkok city and the serene Chao Phraya River below. This Ferris wheel is a part of the Asiatique The Riverfront, a famous open-air mall in Bangkok. Location : Thailand, Bangkok, Charoen Krung Rd, Charoenkrung Soi, Bangkok 10120 Timings : 5.00 PM to 12.00 AM Know More:  Adventure Sports In Thailand Must Checkout -  Bangkok Tour From Ahmedabad

Ice Skating

Koh Pha-Ngan

Thailand's fifth biggest island, Ko Pha-ngan is no less than a paradise on Earth with powdery white sand, dense woods, and scenic beaches. The Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai are two idyllic coves where you can take dramatic pictures. The island becomes peppy and electrifying during the monthly Full Moon Party held at Haad Rin Beach with magnanimous celebration. Do not miss visiting the Thong Sala night market which features shops selling scrumptious Thai street food. Location : Province of  Surat Thani Suggested Read:  Tourist Attractions for Adults In Thailand Must Book & Checkout -  Phuket Packages From Delhi

Best of Chiang Mai

Train Market

Koh Rok is actually a cluster of two small uninhabited islands, Koh Rok Nok and Koh Rok Nai that are just a hundred meters apart. Known for their bewitching beauty of crystal clear turquoise waters, Koh Rok amazes travelers with its tropical and mangrove forests that have huge banyan trees. Do not miss visiting the Mu Koh Lanta National Park and Khao Mai Kaew Cave and enjoy this wonderland's serenity to the fullest. Indulge in activities like sea kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving and have a whale of a time! Location : Krabi Province on Thailand’s Andaman coast Check This Out:  Best Scuba Diving In Thailand Must Book -  Phuket Packages From India

Ang Thong Marine Park

An archipelago of 42 tropical islands, this marine national park is the home to 50 species of birds, 14 reptiles, 16 mammals, and 5 amphibian species. The rich fauna at this park includes Barrington fusiformis, Calophyllum inophyllum, Thespesia populnea, Dracaena Loureiri, Morinda sp, and Thong Lady’s Slipper Orchid. Trek up the Wua Ta Lap viewpoint to enjoy the surreal beauty around, tour around the dramatic Ko Mae Ko island or enjoy kayaking along the pristine waters. Location : Thongsala Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, Thailand Timings : Open 24 Hours Price : 

Individuals Fees : 300 Baht / 680 INR foreigner 150 Baht / 340 INR foreigner kid (under 12 years old) 50 Baht Thai per person 25 Baht/Thai kid (under 12 years old) Read More:  Thailand Spa Also Book -  Phuket Packages From Mumbai

Best of Krabi

Kanta Elephant Sanctuary

Home to a number of elephants rescued from tourism and logging sectors, Kanta Elephant Sanctuary is a sprawling haven for the huge mammals. One can see them roaming about freely without any ankle chains in the vast lawn or enjoying a bath in the artificial water lagoons. Here, riding on elephants is strictly prohibited. However, you can spend the day playing, bathing and feeding the elephants and even learn their rescue story. Location : Khilek, Chiang Mai, Thailand Timings : 7.00 AM to 5.00 PM on all days of the week Pricing : Half-Day Morning / Afternoon visit : Adult Price: 1500 Baht / 3390 INR per person Children (1 - 9 years) Price: 1200 Baht / 2710 INR per person Full day visit : Adult Price: 2500 Baht / 5650 INR per person Children (1 - 9 years) Price: 2000 Baht / 4520 INR per person Recommended Read:  Best Beach Resorts In Thailand for Families Must Checkout -  Phuket Packages From Ahmedabad

John Gray's Hong

Enjoy a sea kayaking trip to the caves and hidden lagoons John Gray found in 1989 at the Phang Nga Bay. These cliff-lined lagoons sparkle during the day with emerald waters and are the habitats of macaques, water monitors, kingfishers, mudskippers, egrets, Sea Eagles and Brahminy Kites which you could witness while kayaking. You can enjoy visiting these hidden caves and enjoy the best moments of your Thailand trip with this activity. Location : Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand Timings : Open from 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM on all days Suggested Read:  Snorkeling In Thailand Book & Visit -  Bangkok Pattaya Phuket Tour Package From Kolkata

Doi Inthanon National Park

Located in the Thanon Chai Range encompassing the highest mountain, Doi Inthanon, Doi Inthanon National Park is the natural habitat of over 350 species and native and exotic fauna. The lush greenery of this park with the mesmerizing beauty of the mighty waterfalls like Mae Ya, Vachrithan, and Mae Klang and the idyllic climatic conditions make it one of the hotspot Places to visit in Thailand with family for trekking and hiking. Location : Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50270, Thailand Timings : 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM Price : Foreigners Adults: 300 THB / 680 INR Foreigners Kids: 150 THB 340 INR Local Tourist Adults: 50 Baht / 110 INR Kids: 20 THB / 45 INR Check This Out:  Best Places To Visit In Thailand In December Must Checkout & Book -  Pattaya Tour Packages From Delhi

Best of Phi Phi

Mu Ko Chang National Park tops the list of tourist attractions in this island. It is a preserve with adventurous hiking trails and scenic waterfalls like the Klong Plu that covers the interior of the national park and extends until the coral reefs. The other waterfall, Koh Chang Waterfalls is a family entertainer where you can enjoy safe swimming in the cool water. Experience elephant trekking at Klong Prao Beach or just head towards Chai Chet where you could find lines of shops selling souvenirs. Location : Thai islands in the Gulf of Thailand Book Now -  Pattaya Tour Packages From Kerala                       Bangkok Pattaya Tour Packages From Pune

Tukcom Shopping Plaza

Tukcom IT mall is a one-stop destination for all your electronic needs and Heaven of Earth for the gadget freaks. Starting from mobiles, laptops and cameras to the gaming consoles and musical accessories, there is nothing that you cannot find here. This multi-storey commercial building is loaded with a number of small shops that sell everything related to electronics. The plaza has covered parking and entertainment options like Harborland Indoor Playground, RollerLand-roller skating rink and BabyPool-Baby swimming teaching center on the top floors. Location : S Pattaya Rd, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri, Thailand Timings : 10.30 AM to 9.30 PM Mon-Friday and 10.00 AM to 10.00 PM on Sat & Sun Also Checkout:  Places To Visit In Thailand In July Also Checkout -  Pattaya Packages From Bangalore

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Dream World Amusement Park in Thailand, is one of the superb entertainment and fun-filled parks to indulge in a plethora of activities with family and friends. The park was inaugurated on 12th Nov 1993. The Kitiparaphon Family is instrumental in creating the park to meet the rising interests of the locals and the foreign nationals. About 1000 million BAHT was invested in building up this magnificent park.Spread across an area of 25 hectares of land, the park is segregated into 4 zones, namely Dream World Plaza, Fantasy Land, Dream Gardens and Adventure Land. Visitors can add this amusement park to their Thailand tour packages and experience almost 40 adventurous rides and other thrilling attractions. The heartbeat of the amusement park is Asia's first hanging roller coaster inside the Adventure Land. You can also find the model of the Grand Canyon as a part of the exciting river rafting.The key feature of the park is the mesmerizing "Colour of the World" street parade which is held every weekend. Several other animal shows and Hollywood stunt shows entertain the audience. Kids will have fun following the cutouts of their favourite superheroes and posing with them for a photo shoot.The amusement park is one of the prominent travel destinations of Thailand. It is elegantly decorated with miniature gardens and trees, offering a perfect weekend getaway. Situated in the Pathum Thani province, it is a perfect entertainment spot for people of all ages. Dream World park is considered to the best theme park in Bangkok, a complete relaxation from the humdrum of city life.Suggested Read: Nature Places Near Bangkok

Located in Khlong Sam Wa, the Safari World, within an area of 170 acres is a drive-in zoological park divided into two parts. The first is the Safari Park to house a large variety of animals like zebra, deer, giraffe, birds tigers lions, bears, etc. in a natural habitat. The second is the Marine Park which hosts events like the famous dolphin show. The Safari World Zoo is the perfect place for families with children to visit during their Thailand trip. Come face to face with thousands of rare and endangered species roaming freely in their natural habitat. The park provides a coach service for visitors who do not drive in.Timings: Opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMPrice: The approximate price ranges from 50 Baht to 350 Baht. 

If you’ve ever wondered what Bangkok looks like from a bird’s perspective, now is the chance to experience it on your own. Home to Bangkok’s highest observation point, the MahaNakhon Skywalk building stands out as a marvelous piece of architecture. Offering some of the most unique experiences in the city, the Skywalk and its accompanying experiences generally make it to all of the best itineraries in Bangkok. Explore this breathtaking attraction as part of exclusive Thailand packages that ensure an unforgettable journey through the vibrant and culturally rich landscapes of this Southeast Asian gem.Upon entering the pixel-shaped tower, one is greeted by a sleek, modern lobby fitted with ticket counters. Adjacent to the booking area is MahaNakhon’s skyride zone; the newest digital experience added to the building, the Skyrides at MahaNakhon offer virtual reality experiences where one can navigate their way through virtual skies as if on a plane.Once off the ride, a corridor of digital walls come alive to lead you to the multimedia elevator- the fastest in Bangkok and one of the building’s most prized assets- which then carries you all the way to the Observation Deck on the 74th floor. The Indoor Deck at the 74th floor offers fantastic panoramic views of the city’s skyline from within the comfort of its glass walls. Having had one’s fill, one can then take the one-way hydraulic lift to the 78th floor, wherein lies the primary attraction of MahaNakhon- the Skywalk.Also known as the ‘Peak’, the MahaNakhon Sky Deck and Glass Skywalk offers unparalleled views of the city. Here, one can take a picture on Bangkok’s highest point, marvel at the scenery below, or even stop for a drink at the Rooftop Bar.Visiting the Observation Decks, however, is not the only thing to do at the MahaNakhon Building. Having finished with one’s experience on the Skywalk, one could head back down to the 4th floor to enjoy duty free shopping at the King’s Power retail outlets.Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bangkok In 1 Day

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Thailand with kids travel guide (2024)

Posted on Last updated: 28 March 2024

For those intrepid parents considering visiting Thailand with kids, we share our top tips , highlights, and an easy 10 day family itinerary for Thailand, which works especially well if you’re planning a trip to Thailand with toddlers. 

Thailand is a fantastic destination for your first intrepid family holiday and one of our favourite family holiday destinations in Asia . Indeed it’s a place we’ve returned to time and time again as a family, as it ticks so many boxes – exceptional value for money, welcoming locals, fascinating culture, stunning beaches, and mouth-wateringly good food.

Bangkok is often the main gateway for families travelling long-haul and after a couple of days exploring the bustling city, they head back to the airport for an internal flight to one of the islands for some beach time. Check out our list of best beaches in Thailand for families .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, and I receive a small commission.

But if you’re travelling Thailand with kids , and especially if you’re travelling to Thailand with toddlers, the thought of another airport and flight after already flying long-haul may feel a bit too much. Instead, you could take the overnight train south to Surat Thani and then catch a connecting boat or bus to your chosen beach, but, yep, that’s a faff too.

Here we share our easy itinerary for Thailand with kids, which avoids internal flights. We first did this trip when our boys were 1 and 3 years old. We then repeated it when they were 7 and 9 years old for the first leg of our 10 week Southeast Asia backpacking adventure .

Before we get into the itinerary though, let’s first discuss whether Thailand is safe for families, visas and immunisations, getting around, and our top tips.

Read on for your essential guide to travelling Thailand with kids…

BUY: Lonely Planet Thailand

• Eimer, David (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 600 Pages – 03/15/2024 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

Is Thailand safe to travel with children?

Thailand is a safe country to visit with children, with extremely friendly locals and a low crime rate. You’re very unlikely to encounter any incidences of violent crime and the standard of healthcare (especially in the larger cities) is some of the highest in Southeast Asia.

As with most countries in Southeast Asia, there’s an intermittent risk of petty theft, particularly in busy streets or train stations when pickpocketing can occur, but it’s fortunately something we’ve never personally experienced.

The overall standard and maintenance of electricity cabling is low throughout the country, so keep an eye out for exposed wires and sockets. Similarly, it’s not uncommon to find holes in the pavement, missing handrails, trip-hazards, etc, around the country, so keep a close eye on children as they wander around.

How to get around Thailand with kids

Thailand has an excellent long-distance train and bus network, including sleeper buses which make for an interesting method of travel as a family, although road conditions are usually less safe during the evening.

A long-distance, overnight sleeper train is one of family travel’s great adventures. The second-class carriages are ideal for a family, with bunk beds across the corridor from each other and feel totally safe at night. Note that under-12’s are technically required to only sleep on the lower bunk, but this isn’t always enforced.

Thailand also has a comprehensive low-cost airline network, linking most of the major cities with each other, plus a useful connection to Koh Samui.

Bangkok and other large cities have good bus and metro networks. For shorter trips around towns and cities, we’ve started using Grab taxis more and more often as they avoid haggling for fares and save you from trying to explain where you need to go. In some Thai cities, taxi drivers will use the meter but not always, but Grab taxis completely avoid this problem. Install the app before you arrive and start using it straightaway.

Visas for Thailand

Citizens of most countries (including the UK, USA, Australia, NZ, and the EU) don’t need a visa to enter Thailand for visits up to 30 days and are given a 30-day stamp on arrival. The entry process at immigration is usually smooth and hassle-free.

If your country isn’t part of the Tourist Visa Exemption programme, or you wish to stay for longer than 30 days, you’ll need to apply for an e-visa in advance via the official website .

Immunisations for Thailand

As always, it’s important to check with a medical professional before travelling to Thailand to check which vaccinations you may need.

In the UK, the excellent Fit For Travel website from the NHS has all the information you’ll need. Make sure you plan ahead for any vaccinations, as some require a longer course of injections over a few weeks.

Our top 10 tips for travelling Thailand with kids

1. Don’t try and fit too much into one day. The heat and noise can be too much of a sensory overload. It’s best to plan your main activity early in the day; not only will you beat the heat, you’ll also beat the crowds.

2. Keep everyone hydrated, but don’t drink the tap water. Only drink filtered water and avoid ice cubes in your drinks. Coconuts sold at street stalls are a tasty way to hydrate.

3. Leave the buggy at home and instead use a carrier for younger kids.

4. Allow for some beach time to relax and unwind at the end of your trip.

5. Be prepared that young kids (particularly if they’re fair-haired) will get plenty of attention from locals. Thai people love kids, so go with the flow when they want to play with your kids and enjoy the parental downtime.

6. Book accommodation with aircon and (ideally) a pool. Aircon really is a must in Thailand, especially to help ensure everyone has a good night’s sleep. The pool is just another way to cool off and allow the kids to play.

7. If your kids don’t like their noodles too spicy, ask for it nid noi (not spicy).

8. Car seats aren’t common in Thailand. If this is something that concerns you, take a travel car seat such as the Bubble Bum Inflatable Booster Car Seat with you.

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9. Nappies and milk can be bought from 7-Elevens across the country. They can be found everywhere. Although do note that larger nappy sizes are difficult to come by.

10. If you’re intending to do a long bus or train journey, check Google Flights before you book. There are so many low cost airlines operating within Thailand, you may find it more cost effective to fly.

Top 8 things to do in Thailand with kids

• Visit Bangkok , the city full of surprises and experiences, and the place many an adventure has begun.
• Head to one of Thailand’s beautiful islands, for a blissful escape full of sand, sea and sunbathing.
• Check out the gem capital of Thailand in Chanthaburi , itself a pretty riverside town off the tourist trail.
• Visit the ancient ruins in Ayuthaya, a mini-version of Angkor Wat with a chilled-out vibe.
• Hone your cooking skills at a culinary class in Chiang Mai .
• Take an overnight sleeper train and experience a night on the rails.
• Learn the tragic history of the Bridge over the River Kwai at Kanchanaburi, perhaps via a side trip to the rivers and jungles nearby.
• Relax with a Thai massage in any town or city; parents will love it but it’s also a great place to introduce kids to this local speciality.

Check out our Southeast Asia packing list for families

Thailand itinerary with kids

This is an easy, tried-and-tested, Thailand itinerary for families over the course 10 days, starting and ending in Bangkok . No internal flights are necessary and it offers a good contrast of bustling city life, dense jungle adventures, and tropical island beach time. Enjoy.

Day 1 – Arrive in Bangkok

READ: Top things to do in Bangkok with kids

From the airport, make sure you take a taxi from the official taxi stand to your hotel. Ensure the meter is used and if you’re heading to Th Khao San , the fare should be around 400THB (including tolls).

We recommend you stay around the Banglamphu area (centred around the lively Th Khao San) for its central location, hippy markets and fun-time vibe. This area is a melting pot of travellers from around the world and it makes for some fascinating people watching. Plus, some of the restaurants here have high chairs!

Step a few streets away from this traveller enclave and you’ll soon stumble upon the quintessential side of Bangkok of local stalls, shining temples and antique shophouses.

Good family-friendly, mid-range hotels are Ratchadamnoen Residence  and  Rambuttri Village Plaza .

Day 2 – Bangkok 

READ: Bangkok with a toddler

Opulent temples and shrines, sensational street food and super-fun tuk-tuk rides around the bustling streets await. Head to Wat Arun, rather than the Grand Palace for a more intimate experience with your little ones and enjoy a boat ride along the Chao Phraya.

Day 3 – Travel to Chanthaburi 

READ: Visiting Chanthaburi with kids

Chanthaburi is an old gem-trading town conveniently located on the way to Koh Chang. You can either take an aircon bus from Bangkok Ekkamai to Chanthaburi (there are three buses per day, taking 3.5 hours) or hire a private car which provides the convenience of door-to-door service between your hotels (3500THB). Your hotel in Bangkok will be able to book either option for you.

Once in Chanthaburi, we recommend staying in the old town to soak up all the history the sleepy town has to offer. We particularly enjoyed staying at Tamajun Hotel with their teak en-suite rooms and communal balcony overlooking the river. The perfect spot for a Chang Beer once the kids are asleep.

Spend your afternoon wandering around the narrow streets, gem markets (open at weekends), the temples and cathedral (the largest in Southeast Asia).

Day 4 – Namtok Phlio National Park day trip 

From your hotel, book a songthaew to take you to Namtok Phlio National Park for a jungle adventure! Ensure you are all lathered in mosquito repellent and pack drinking water.

It’s a 20 minute drive to the gates and then 1km loop walk around the river (the perfect distance for little legs!), visiting various pools full of large nibbling fish, fed by cascading waterfalls. If you’re brave enough, pop in for a dip with the locals. Back at the gate there are some makeshift restaurants selling local food for lunch. 

Day 5 – Travel to Koh Chang 

READ: Koh Chang with kids

Time for the beach!

From Chanthaburi, there is one bus per day to Trat taking 50 minutes. From there you need to get a songthaew for the ferry terminal to Koh Chang. Alternatively, hire a private car to take you all the way to the ferry terminal. From there it’s a half hour crossing (ferries leave hourly). If you’ve taken the private car option, the car will go on the ferry and transfer you directly to your hotel on the island. We found it easier to book this through our hotel in Koh Chang and cost 2500THB (inc. ferry ticket).

Situated close to the Cambodian border, Koh Chang has managed to avoid the mass development that other Thai islands have experienced, yet still has the Western comforts and good resorts to choose from.

The fringes of the island offer sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, and warm shallow waters, whilst the interior is thickly clad with rainforest and running waterfalls to swim in. There’s one main road, which is very steep in places and mostly circumnavigates the island (it doesn’t connect at the southern tip) with collections of bars, restaurants, massage parlours and 7-Elevens at regular intervals.

Serenity Resort is a great choice for young families. We loved taking the free kayaks out on the sea each morning before breakfast and they also provide buckets and spades for playing on the beach. The water here is shallow and calm, perfect for little ones, although a little rocky in places. There is also a good-sized infinity swimming pool and the restaurant provides a fantastic range of Thai and Western dishes. The staff are super accommodating – Keith drove us over to White Sand Beach one morning to stock up on supplies from the supermarket. There’s also a cheap laundry service across the road (by this time your dirty undies are probably piling up!)

If you’re on more of a budget, we also recommend staying at Siam Bay Resort on the west coast, which we have also stayed at. Siam Bay Resort was one of the first resorts on the island and is in a quiet and secluded spot on the west coast, offering stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand. There are two swimming pools (no lifeguard) and a small curve of sandy beach which starts to the side of the main reception area. We had a family beach hut overlooking the sea, with a mezzanine for the kids’ bedroom.

Day 6-8 – Koh Chang 

Spend your days exploring the thick jungle hinterland, swimming in waterfalls, and visiting the fishing villages and mangroves of the south. Or perhaps allow yourselves to just unwind and enjoy your family time splashing around in the sea or pool, making sandcastles and indulge in some lovely food and perhaps a cheeky cocktail or three for the parents.

Day 9 – Travel back to Bangkok

Today will be your longest day of travel. Get to the ferry terminal in Koh Chang early, otherwise you may find yourselves queuing for the next available ferry. Again, there are buses from Trat (on the mainland and you have to get from the ferry terminal to the bus station) or you could hire a private car transfer door-to-door, including the ferry. 

From the Koh Chang Ferry Terminal on the mainland, back to Bangkok , is a comfortable 4.5 hour drive.

Day 10 – Travel back home

Depending on the departure time of your flight, you may have time for some last minute souvenir shopping down Th Khao San, a last Pad Thai or roasted cricket, before you jump in a taxi back to the airport.

Check out this post for how to get from  Khao San Road to Suvarnabhumi Airport .

More Thailand guides for families

Visiting BANGKOK with kids

WHY WE LOVE Thailand with kids

KOH CHANG WITH KIDS

The BEST BEACHES IN THAILAND FOR FAMILIES

Koh LANTA WITH KIDS

CHANTHABURI WITH KIDS

You may also like to read: Cambodia with kids travel guide Borneo with kids travel guide Singapore with kids: a one day itinerary

• The Best Family Friendly Destinations...

The 12 Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Thailand

Children are celebrated and doted on in the Land of Smiles, making it a great place for a family holiday. Besides the Thais’ natural love for kids, Thailand’s affordability, weather and array of activities make it a perfect getaway destination. Here is our list of the best family-friendly places to visit in Thailand .

Natural Feature

Architectural Landmark

If you are interested in an alternative option, look no further than Pai . Pai not only is a great place for a family holiday, but it also has a thriving community of local Thai and migrant families. Visit a circus training school, go jungle trekking or rafting, and enjoy the huge variety of healthy food. Pai is best reached by renting a car in Chiang Mai and driving. Chiang Dao is a great place to visit en route to explore the caves and stunning temple.

Museum, Art Gallery, Building

Architectural Landmark, Natural Feature

The beach lovers’ destination of Krabi is the perfect place to relax. Not only are some of the country’s best beaches in Krabi, but it is also a fantastic place to pick up a snorkel and mask and become acquainted with Thailand’s beautiful underwater world. In the surrounding area, there are also plenty of options for fun day trips to national parks, waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries or, for older kids, rock climbing in some of the world’s best climbing spots.

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For a more laid-back beach option, head to Koh Chang . This is a popular destination for backpackers and families alike. It has every accommodation option available, from cheap bungalows on the beach to boutique dream-like resorts. Koh Chang offers simple, genuine family fun, including swimming, snorkelling, building sandcastles and exploring waterfalls.

Prachuap Khiri Khan

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Chiang Rai is perfect for families who like adventure and stepping somewhat off the beaten track. There are plentiful opportunities for jungle trekking and meeting hill-tribe groups, with trips that are tailored for kids. Visit the Golden Triangle and stand at the point where Thailand, Laos , and Myanmar meet. Venture a little further and stop by hot springs and spurting geysers. Don’t miss seeing Chiang Rai’s town clock in action as it strikes the hour, when it lights up and plays music in a brilliant display. Children and adults alike can marvel at the gleaming White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Seua Ten) and the Black House (Baan Dam). Stay in a rustic homestay or cute guesthouse to immerse your kids in the Thai way of life. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Kanchanaburi

Bridge, Natural Feature

Chonburi Province is located along the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand. Although primarily associated with Pattaya (one of Thailand’s most notorious nightlife destinations ), there is also a huge amount of things to see and do with children. Spend days lazing on sandy beaches, visit nearby islands and try an array of water sports. Marvel at the intricate wooden carved beauty of The Sanctuary of Truth and be mystified by the curiosities at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Observe numerous creatures at Khao Kheow Open Zoo and shriek for joy on an exhilarating eco-adventure at Chonburi Flight of the Gibbon. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is a colourful wonderland filled with fragrant flowers, statues and water features, whilst the petting zoo and bird zone are sure to appeal to younger members of the family. Learn more about the ocean deep at Underwater World Pattaya and get wet and wild at a variety of water parks. A floating market, urban farms, temples and museums provide even more great outings. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

Nakhon Ratchasima

Natural Feature, Park

Thailand’s largest province of Nakhon Ratchasima , located in Isan, is famous for being home to the country’s first national park: Khao Yai National Park . Take the kids exploring in the jungle and spot a range of flora and fauna. There are trails to suit all ability levels, though many of the park’s main features can also be easily accessed by road. Thundering waterfalls and scenic lookout points add to the diversity. Have fun camping in the wild or check into a lovely guesthouse for some home comforts.

You’ll find attractions like the working Farm Chokchai, with its cowboy-style appeal, and the countryside adventure park of Thongsomboon Club, located close to the park’s main entrance. Feeling the heat? Check out the water park of Scenical World. Elsewhere in the province, the hilly town of Wang Nam Khiao is home to tourist-focused farms, waterfalls and quirky attractions, while Phimai offers a journey back in time at ancient ruins. Recommended by Sarah Williams.

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Family vacations in Thailand

• Khao Sok National Park

By Thailand specialist Rebecca

There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained on a trip to Thailand, regardless of age — from spending time exploring its busy cities to cooking lessons and getting up close and personal with the resident elephants.

You can explore the length and breadth of Thailand easily, whether hopping on an internal flight or, more intrepidly, aboard a train. I suggest splitting your time between Bangkok , Chiang Mai , and one of the beach resorts in the south , taking each destination at your own pace.

Elephant experiences for families in Thailand

Elephants are one of the biggest draws for families on vacation in Thailand. There are a number of initiatives that I particularly recommend due to their ethical conservation efforts. They offer close-up experiences with these docile creatures while keeping animal welfare front of mind (for that reason, they don’t offer elephant rides).

One such organization, the Elephant Nature Park,  is an easy journey out from Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. They place the utmost importance on the welfare of their animals and instilling its importance in their visitors.

Cooking lessons in Thailand

Chiang Mai is renowned for its food, and here you can take part in a  Thai cooking experience that also gives you a glimpse into the daily life of a local family.

Spend half a day with Mr Prapat and his family, shopping for fresh produce at the market before joining them in their home to learn traditional cooking techniques. Together, you’ll prepare a delicious home-cooked lunch, which will vary depending on the time of year you visit and the freshest ingredients available in the market.

It’s an interactive induction to the spices and herbs that flavor northern Thai dishes, but you can adjust the heat to suit your family’s tastes. While you cook, Mr Prapat will be more than happy to answer any questions you or your children have about local life, culture, and traditions.

Staying with a local hill tribe

Living among a traditional tribe and discovering what rural life in Thailand really entails can be an enriching family experience. My preferred option for families is  Lisu Lodge , an hour and a half’s drive from Chiang Mai.

The ethos of the lodge is to preserve the cultures and traditions of the local community while allowing visitors to get a personal insight in their lifestyle.

You’re hosted by the local hill tribe and sleep in a traditional stilted house. Meals are cooked by your hosts — there’s no menu, you’re simply invited to sit cross-legged on the floor and served what seems like a banquet of food.

I’d recommend staying here for a night or two so you can make the most of the outdoor activities, such as mountain biking and rafting along the gentle river. In the evening, you can spend time with the tribe’s shaman, who’ll teach you and your family about the community’s culture and traditions.

Camping at Elephant Hills in the rainforest

Elephant Hills  in  Khao Sok National Park , in the south of Thailand, is my recommended family ‘camping’ experience. It’s located a three-hour drive from Phuket, so you can easily tie it into the beach portion of your trip if you’re staying on the west coast.

Encased in rainforest with coconut mangroves and jutting limestone karsts, the first thing that hits you is the call of the wildlife — gibbons howling in the day, cicadas calling at night, and the ribbit of frogs.

The main camp — consisting of safari-style tents — is suitable for children aged four and above. Families with children aged seven and over can also spend the second or third night of the stay in the floating tents of the  Rainforest Camp . Head deep into your lush green surroundings on a traditional longtail boat, exploring the tributaries of Cheow Larn Lake until it opens up to reveal a row of 20 floating tents.

The lake is 30 m (98 ft) deep and perfectly still, and you can swim in it straight from your tent’s own private deck. The wildlife is more prevalent here, too. Seeing wild elephants is a rarity, but you can meet the elephants that reside in the park’s sanctuary.

Thailand’s best beaches for families

Thailand’s beaches are accessible year round and there are plenty of stays to suit families of all ages and sizes. While the  Khao Lak on the Andaman Coast (Thailand's west coast) is better during November to March, families traveling during July and August should visit the Gulf of Thailand to the east.

From Bangkok, it’s just a short 90-minute flight to  Krabi ,  Phuket , or  Koh Samui , the gateways to Thailand’s southern beaches.

On Thailand’s west coast, Khao Lak is a personal favorite. A one and a half hour’s drive north of Phuket, this is a quiet and unspoiled area with fewer visitors.

Expect a relaxed pace of life and calm seas, with a selection of fantastic hotels, including the  Ramada . Although this is a chain hotel, it’s small with everything a family needs for a few days at the beach, including a beachfront location, kids’ club, babysitting service, and inviting pool.

The property is only a short walk from Khao Lak town, which has many local restaurants serving authentic Thai food.

While the main resorts in Koh Samui can be quite commercialized and busy, you can escape this by heading to the north of the island.

Just a 40-minute car journey from Koh Samui airport lies a stretch of golden sand known as Bophut Beach. All of the resorts here are beachfront and the shallow waters tempt children of all ages to paddle around or swim in safety.

Anantara Bophut  on the bay is my recommended option for families. Designed in true Thai style, suites are large and the interconnecting rooms ensure everyone has their own space. The hotel also offers a kids’ club and family-friendly cookery classes.

A luxury family stay in Thailand

If you’re seeking a little  luxury in Thailand , my choice would be Maenam Beach on the north of Koh Samui. Of particular note is the five-star  Belmond Napasai . Individual stilted villas dot the hillside with uninterrupted views over the ocean.

Room options include garden villas, ocean pool residences that feature their own pool and kitchenette area, and four-bedroom villas, all of which are great options depending on your budget.

Eating out with your family in Thailand

Most hotels provide a range of international meal options alongside their classic Thai dishes, and restaurant staff will always ask how spicy you’d like your food. You can request no spice at all, if you wish.

Best time to visit Thailand with your family

Although the busiest (and driest) season runs from November to March, Thailand is suitable most of the year thanks to its microclimates.

The east coast is drier over the summer months of July and August, and, even though there may be rain in other areas at this time of year, it tends to be heavy downpours that are easily avoided and so should not preclude travel.

Read our full guide about the  best time to visit Thailand .

Getting around Thailand with your family

If you have young children, you’ll likely find it easier to take domestic flights between cities, such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Bangkok to Phuket. For shorter distances, I can arrange a private driver for you.

There are also local commuter trains you can take across the country, which are better suited to more intrepid families or those with older teenagers.

In larger cities and beach destinations, tuk-tuks can be an exhilarating way to zip from one place to the next, allowing you to take in the sights as you go. You could also take a songthaew (a converted pick-up truck with a roof) if you need a little extra space, though these are typically used as shared taxis or buses.

Read more family trip ideas to Thailand

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Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in Thailand: our highlights guide
• Thailand's best beach vacations and resorts
• Sweet, salty, sour and spice: what to eat in Thailand
• Into the wild: Thailand’s national parks
• More family trip ideas with Audley

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The best things to do in Thailand with kids

Dec 21, 2023 • 6 min read

From babies to teens, there are many great things to do on a family trip to Thailand © Suriyapong Thongsawang / Getty Images

Thailand is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

Beaches and watersports abound, of course, as the country is blessed with 3148km (1956 miles) of coastline. But Thailand also boasts 156 national parks, 120 protected forest areas and 58 wildlife sanctuaries covering more than 30% of the country, providing ample opportunity for tramping and animal spotting. And city lovers need not worry: Bangkok holds a wealth of diversions and nearby day trips .

Thais love children and are willing to make all sorts of allowances for them; there are very few places where children are not welcome. When it comes to kids, Thailand truly is the “Land of Smiles.”

What makes Thailand good for kids?

Beaches, mountains, endless verdant scenery and the smattering of a temple or two: Thailand is a tropical paradise but also has enough infrastructure ( transportation , restaurants, generally clean restrooms) to make traveling with children relatively pain-free. If you fly into Bangkok, the Airport Rail Link (from Suvarnabhumi) and Don Mueang Airport Train (from Don Muang) can connect you to any Skytrain (called BTS ) or subway ( MRT ) station in the city, with most stations equipped with elevators for people with lots of baggage and a stroller in tow.

In any of Thailand’s bigger cities (and quite a few small ones), you’ll find that the major nexus around which all local families congregate is the shopping mall, which typically has a section devoted to children’s entertainment. This is where you’ll find play areas for smaller children, bowling alleys, movie theaters and the occasional ice skating rink ( Seacon Square in Bangkok even has a 10,000-sq-m (107,639-sq-ft) indoor amusement park called YoYo Land ). As for food options, the number of restaurant outlets at some of the bigger shopping complexes can be downright bewildering, but a few standbys – McDonald’s, Starbucks – coexist happily with local chains specializing in everything from Thai food ( Nara , Greyhound ) to Japanese ( Oishi , Fuji ) to Italian ( the Pizza Company , Peppina ).

If staying in Bangkok with your kids , public transport is a snap for children, who travel for free on both the Skytrain and subway if they are less than 90cm/2.9ft (a height measuring scale is located right next to the ticket window). On the subway, children who are younger than 14 but have surpassed the 90cm height limit to 120cm (3.9ft) can pay a discounted rate.

And when it comes to accommodation, Bangkok is thick with family-friendly options ranging from standard hotels within walking distance of public transportation and shopping centers to serviced apartments available for short-term rentals to AirBnbs costing as little as THB1000 (US$29) a night. Even better, most beach resorts (and quite a few resorts in popular destinations like Chiang Mai ) are well-versed when it comes to handling little ones, offering highchairs, children’s menus, baby pools and kids clubs dedicated to keeping youngsters busy. All options can be outfitted with extra cots or beds if requested ahead of time.

Less touristy destinations such as the Northeast and a few of the smaller islands are a bit trickier to navigate, especially with a stroller, so baby carriers are advised – particularly if you plan to be on the go during your visit. Kids menus might also seem thin on the ground here, so knowing a child-friendly dish that can be made anywhere is helpful. When it comes to children, Thais typically go for khao pad gai  (chicken fried rice), a mix of rice with diced chicken meat, scrambled egg and vegetables, sometimes topped with a fried egg. If chicken is not something your child enjoys, you can substitute it with any kind of protein: khao pad puu  (crab fried rice); khao pad nuea  (beef fried rice); or khao pad jay vegetarian fried rice).

Where is the best place to go in Thailand for kids?

During the high season from December to February and the “hot” season in March and April, the beach is obviously where it’s at. Visitors will be rewarded with moderate (for Thailand) temperatures of 22–32°C (72–90°F), clear skies, soft sand and bathtub-warm water. Of course, visitors will also encounter other tourists, both local and international, seeking the same thing, so make plans accordingly.

During the rainy season between May and October, the beaches are frequently littered with jellyfish, which tend to appear after a monsoon. If you want to avoid their unpleasant stings (or if you’re just looking to avoid a horde of tourists), Thailand’s many national parks offer kids a chance to not only get out into nature but learn something about the country’s unique ecosystem. 

Best things to do in Thailand with babies and toddlers: sun, sand and water

What more can you ask for as a baby than calm water, soft sand and a good place to take a nap? Thailand abounds in beaches, but some of its most family-friendly ones are Phuket ’s Nai Harn and Surin beaches, Ko Pha-Ngan ’s Than Sadet beach, Railay’s Tham Phra Nang beach, and Ko Samet , all of which provide plenty of places to eat and change.

Thais traditionally congregate on Hua Hin beach, which also offers banana boat rides, kite surfing lessons and horseback rides for older children and is, of course, lined with restaurants, hotels and the occasional roti vendor. If you dislike getting sandy, there is also Vana Nava , labeled the “world’s biggest water park.”

Best things to do in Thailand with kids: elephants, hikes and fireflies

Thailand has myriad national parks and wildlife sanctuaries scattered throughout the country, showcasing the diversity of its flora and fauna. In the far reaches of the north, elephant camps allow visitors to connect with the beloved pachyderms, which are considered “good luck.”

Closer to Bangkok, Thailand’s most popular national park, Khao Yai , offers a wealth of hikes for walkers of varying degrees of experience. If you hire a guide, they will help you spot the different varieties of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and if you’re lucky, elephants. Another good day out from Bangkok is to Amphawa , a popular floating market that gives a glimpse of what shopping for Thais used to be like. At dusk, guided boat tours allow children to spot the fireflies that congregate by the roots of the banyan trees (and if you want to stay overnight, there are accommodations right on the water).

Best things to do in Thailand with tweens and teenagers: history, swimming and rafting

Although it may seem like your tween or teen isn’t interested in much of anything beyond their phone, you can possibly tempt them with forays into the country’s interesting history, to be found in places like Kanchanaburi , home of Thailand’s famous “ Death Railway .” The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre is an interactive museum that tells the story of how the railway came to be. The river itself is a fun attraction, lending opportunities for river rafting, paddleboarding or even a lazy (guided) float downstream. Close by, the popular Erawan Falls allows gentle splashing as tiny fish nibble on your toes.

Back in Bangkok, the interactive Museum Siam tells the story of how the concept of “Thainess” came to be, while the Chao Phraya River is fun to cruise, either by water taxi  or the numerous hotel shuttle boats (which are free), accessible from Saphan Taksin.

Planning tips for travel with kids in Thailand

Thailand actually sports a decent train system , which can provide (seemingly) endless hours of entertainment. The overnight train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a popular option, but younger children may find themselves battling sensory overload (and parents may be battling for space for a stroller). The train from Bangkok also reaches the furthest lengths of the kingdom down south for travelers who want to travel by train to Surat Thani , where you can transfer to a bus for Samui , Krabi or Phuket (again, a baby carrier is advised instead of a stroller).

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Thailand with kids

An expert guide to family-friendly thailand travel.

David Luekens

• In this guide

Family-friendly cities

Family-friendly islands, family-friendly beaches, national parks & wildlife.

• Need to know

Thailand with kids: Overview

If you're visiting Thailand with kids I'm sure the obvious contenders will already be on your radar: the temples of Bangkok, a cooking class in Chiang Mai, maybe an elephant sanctuary, one of the islands, and call it a wrap.

There's nothing wrong with any of that, but take my advice: I've been living in and writing about Thailand since 2011 and I can tell you there is so much more to the country that doesn't make the standard "top 10" lists and travel brochures. If you're even vaguely interested in getting the kids off the beaten path and seeing some of the "real" Thailand, this guide is for you.

And now is a great time to bring the family to Thailand. The country has been working hard to shed its reputation as a backpacker party hub, and reinvent itself as a family-friendly travel destination. It's a wonderful place to visit for all ages and with great transport, escaping the crowds can be easy and fun – even with kids in tow.

But with beautiful beaches to buzzing cities; from nature reserves to culture and sport; from relaxing by a pool to experiencing a jungle adventure... just where do you start? You start right here: with my expert guide to visiting Thailand with kids. Happy travels!

What to do in Thailand with kids

Popular – and some lesser-known – places to visit in thailand with the family.

Bangkok, History & Beaches

This is a variation on the classic Bangkok & beach itinerary, especially tweaked for younger travellers. Thailand has worked to shed its reputation as a hard-partying backpacker destination and reinvent itself for a wider range of visitors. This is one of Asia's most accessible places for family travellers, and the following itinerary gives you an easy-going introduction to the country that's suitable for all ages. This route begins in Bangkok navigating meandering waterways via traditional longtail boats, before venturing to the River Kwai region, where you will you'll visit striking waterfalls near Kanchanaburi. Immerse yourself in the heart of Khao Sok National Park before finishing with a visit to two of the best beaches on Thailand's eastern coast.

Beach time in Khao Lak

Just north of the rowdier Phuket, I think Khao Lak has the perfect balance of peace and action for families. The area covers several miles-long expanses of soft sand rimmed by terrific family resorts and restaurants offering Western and Thai menus. Nightlife is minimal, but a good night market and many boutiques keep the after-dark scene lively enough for most families. Unlike some of Thailand's busier beach towns, the mood is kid-friendly: very laid-back with a jungle-backed landscape that is dotted with coconut farms. The most popular beach is Nang Thong, where an offshore light tower often features in sunset photos. Nearby beaches - Bang Niang, Pakarang, Maphrao, Pak Weep and Bang Sak - each have resorts of their own; the scene gets sleepier the further north you go up the coast. Khao Lak's Thap Lamu Pier is the jumping off point for day trips to the Similans, a chain of nine protected islands with powdery white-sand beaches and some of the finest diving and snorkelling in Thailand. There’s no shortage of boat tours and diving excursions on offer. Back on the mainland, kids enjoy swimming at the natural pool fed by Ton Pling Waterfall; stop at a butterfly and orchid farm on the way to see historic architecture and paddle through a mangrove forest known as Little Amazon in the nearby town of Takua Pa. The 2004 Asian tsunami hit Khao Lak hard and museums and memorials are dedicated to the roughly 3,000 people who died locally in the tragedy. Khao Lak now has several tsunami shelters and an early warning system in place.

Temples & markets in Chiang Mai

Home to at least one million people, Thailand's second city straddles the Ping River valley in the scenic and mountainous north of Thailand. The city is one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations. There are hundreds of guesthouses, hotels, travel offices and eateries in the highly walkable, square-shaped historic district that is rimmed by some of the original city walls. Chiang Mai is probably best known for its glistening 14th to 17th century Lanna-style temples. With their gilded surfaces, multi-tiered sloped roofs and lacquer doors, they are among the most graceful examples of Thailand's historic architecture. The city is also famous for its night markets, including a nightly bazaar east of the old town and a Saturday and Sunday “walking street” that takes over an entire road west of Tha Pae Gate in the old town. The atmosphere is lively with street musicians, artists painting on-the-spot portraits, and a variety of street food. Another highlight for visitors and older kids are the many Thai cookery classes in the city.

Kid-friendly Bangkok

Thailand's capital city; vast, bustling, traditional in places, sleekly modern in others, and fascinating for visitors of all ages. Bangkok is surprisingly accessible for family travellers. Public transportation is excellent and easy to navigate, the food is varied and, despite its size, the city and its inhabitants are exceptionally welcoming to kids. A half day in the historic district is a must to take in key sites like Wat Pho's 46m-long gilded reclining Buddha, the lavish mix of 18th and 19th century architecture at the Grand Palace, and Phu Khao Thong, the Golden Mount affording views of the city set to chiming prayer bells. In between, thrill the kids with a ride in one of the city’s sputtering tuk tuks. If the kids are suffering from temple overload there's plenty more to keep them entertained for a day or two. There’s mask painting, puppetry and evocative canal-side life at the Artist House of Khlong Bang Luang, one of several stops on Thonburi's famous khlong (canal) tours. And if they need a real break from sightseeing, for an all-out kids’ day in Bangkok try the Dream World amusement park and make education fun at the Children’s Discovery Museum. Throw in a river ferry ride on the Chao Phraya followed by dinner, and finish with a spin on the ferris wheel at Asiatique. It's not all kid-friendly paradise, however. The city can feel cramped, choked with traffic and often extremely hot. Don’t squeeze too many activities into a day, and look for air-conditioned spots to cool down. Try to avoid using the metro and the roads during rush hours.

Family-friendly island escape

The Thai islands have some reputational baggage when it comes to the all-night party vibes, but there are plenty of islands that are perfectly suited for kids and family travellers. I'd put Ko Mak and Ko Kood firmly on the kid-friendly list. On star-shaped Ko Mak you can rent bicycles to explore the gently rolling terrain blanketed in pineapple and rubber farms, and Ko Rang, the prime snorkelling and diving destination in the archipelago, is easily reached. There are islets accessible by kayak or private boat tour, the largest of which is Ko Kradat, where herds of deer roam freely. The white sand of Ko Kham is also a hit near Ao Suan Yai, one of Ko Mak's two main beaches. Ko Kood is a larger island with more than a dozen beaches that are among the finest in Thailand. When not relaxing seaside you might kayak the mangrove-draped rivers, cool off at one of three waterfalls, and marvel at 500-year-old macca trees that tower amid the mountainous interior. Ko Mak is easy to get around, but some of Ko Kood's beaches are remote and traversing the island can be expensive and tricky with younger kids. Sand flies become a problem on both islands at times, especially on Ko Mak. In the dry season, you could first head to the larger island of Ko Chang and then catch up with island-hopping ferries that stop at Ko Mak and Ko Kood, as well as the smaller island of Ko Wai.

See rescued elephants (ethically)

Elephants have a troubled and controversial place in the Thai tourism industry. The basic rule of thumb is to avoid elephant riding or any close-contact, captive elephant experiences. Even so-called "sanctuaries" can be a problem. But one that is universally recognised as above board is the Elephant Nature Park just outside of Chiang Mai. A must-visit for visitors with kids.

Day trip to Ayutthaya

Founded in 1350 and destroyed by invading Burmese in 1767, the once-glorious city of Ayutthaya preceded Bangkok as the capital of Siam, as Thailand was known before 1939. Its ruins are extensive and easier to reach than those of Sukhothai. The UNESCO-listed historical park covers part of an island rimmed by a canal and three rivers. Here you'll find Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the former royal temple with slender bell-shaped chedis and the remains of a once-ornate palace. Many of the ruins here dot the city to form a contrast between modern and ancient. There are many noteworthy historical sites on the outskirts of Ayutthaya, accessible by longtail boat or the area's signature frog-shaped tuk tuks. The Million Toy Museum is a hit with kids, while adults appreciate the remains of settlements built by Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese and other foreign merchants who once prospered in the city. You can climb the towering chedi at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and imagine the approach of the Burmese invaders. A highlight of Lopburi is Phra Phrang Sam Yod, featuring a trio of corncob spires built by Khmers in the 12th century and later embellished with Thai artistry. Another is Phra Narai Ratchaniwet, a 17th century palace that's now an excellent museum. Just 70km north of Bangkok, it’s perfect for a day trip or stays of a night or two. A further 60km up the Northern railway line is Lopburi, another historic centre.The thousands of monkeys at Lopburi can be brazen, sneaking up to snatch food or even cameras and wallets before scampering away. Though mostly harmless, they do sometimes bite. Don't let kids pet them, and keep a tight grip on your valuables.

Kid-friendly Krabi

Krabi, on Thailand's southwest coast, is a glorious, family-friendly alternative to the often seedy and rowdy Phuket. Ao Nang is Krabi province's most touristy town on the mainland coast, with a large selection of comfortable family-friendly resorts. A little further north, Noppharat Thara and Khlong Muang beaches are quieter and less nightlife-oriented. The provincial capital is also worth a visit for food and culture. Close to Krabi town, you can hop in a longtail boat and climb into the caves at Khao Kanab Nam before taking a spin around the pastoral island of Ko Klang with its mosques, water buffalo and batik workshops. Outside the town, the viewpoint at Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) is breathtaking, but try climbing the 1,237 steps only if the whole family is in good shape. Other options include hiking to the 11-tier Huai Toh waterfall, or along the scenic Dragon Spine ridge known as Khao Ngon Nak. On the mainland, but only accessible by boat from the Ao Nang area, is Railay, a peninsula with top-notch beaches framed by vertical karst cliffs that are well known to rock climbers. While Railay has several resorts, many visitors drop by on a boat tour that also covers the islands of Ko Poda and Ko Gai - Chicken Island because of its hen-like shape. Further north, Ko Hong rewards day trippers with a viewpoint set near a jade-hued lagoon. Krabi province also includes the islands of Ko Phi Phi, Ko Jum and Ko Lanta, among others. Day trips are possible from Krabi town and Ao Nang, but I'd recommend you treat them as separate destinations and try to spend several nights there if possible.

Nature hikes in Khao Sok

Khao Sok is one of Thailand's best-known national parks, and makes a convenient stop-off for family itineraries calling at Thailand's southern beach destinations. The park’s centrepiece is a reservoir, Ratchaphrapa or Chiew Lan, one of the most magnificent bodies of fresh water in Southeast Asia. The emerald water glistens between 1,000-metre high limestone mountains. You can take a boat tour lasting a few hours or a full day, or you can spend a night at one of 17 raft-house lodgings. They all come with kayaks. West of the reservoir are caves and waterfalls, and a trail guide is required to access most of them. This area is also where you'll find the rafflesia kerrii, the fire-red, so-called dinosaur flower that smells rank and is one of the world's largest flowers when it blooms in the dry season. Though large mammals are rare, Khao Sok is full of birds and reptiles. Most people will visit as part of an organised tour that includes accommodation, transfers in/out of the park, and guided nature hikes.

Island hopping, family style

Trang province, south of Krabi, is another of Thailand's many lesser-visited spots, and is a good place to do some kid-friendly island-hopping. The capital of Trang province, south of Krabi on the Andaman coast, is worth a night if you're a food lover. Rise early for dim sum, deep-fried tofu and steamed buns (sala bao) with locally-grown Robusta coffee, then sample the many curries and Trang's signature roast pork dish in the markets. Ko Mook is Trang province's most popular island, even if it's downright sleepy compared to Ko Phi Phi or Ko Lanta. Explore the fishing villages, hike to the viewpoint and take a longtail boat or kayaks to Tham Morakot. A dark 50-metre sea cave that might frighten little ones, ends at a white sand beach concealed by a vertical ring of limestone. Easy to reach from Ko Mook by affordable private longtail boat, the smaller islands of Ko Kradan and Ko Ngai both have beaches that rank among the most stunning in the country. They also offer fine resorts, reefs for off-the-beach snorkelling, and forest trails ending at sparsely developed coves. You could finish with Ko Libong, which draws yet fewer tourists, but is home to quaint villages and one of the last herds of dugongs (similar to manatees) left in Thailand. From a boat tour or an observation tower you may spot some of these endangered creatures, sometimes known as sea cows, feeding in their protected waters. You can fly direct to Trang Airport (TST) from Bangkok, or take a train down the only offshoot of the Southern Line that accesses the Thai southwest.

Kanchanaburi

History lessons in Kanchanaburi

This scenic and historic town on the River Kwai (pronounced kway), along with the province of the same name, offers families a chance to learn Second World War history between visits to some of Thailand's most impressive waterfalls. A host of museums in the provincial capital cover the history of the Thai-Burma Railway and the roughly 100,000 Allied prisoners and forced labourers who died during its construction overseen by the Japanese Army in 1942-43. One highlight is the rail bridge that inspired the 1957 film, The Bridge on the River Kwai. Visitors can ride on part of the railway built atop trellises high above the river. Kanchanaburi's most riveting Second World War site is Hellfire Pass, a memorial where you can hike a portion of a now-closed stretch of railway that was extremely gruelling for the malnourished workers to build. It’s just 80km north of the provincial capital and you can visit with a tour, or independently. This sobering history is balanced by fabulous natural attractions, including the popular Erawan waterfall and the more remote Huai Mae Khamin waterfall. Bring swimsuits. If you have more time, consider venturing to the misty lakeside town of Sangkhlaburi or the border outpost of Pilok, both in the Tenassarim Mountains near Myanmar. Kanchanaburi is only 130km west of Bangkok, making it convenient for a short trip. But as the third largest province in the country, it's also worth considering for a longer stay. Most of Kanchanaburi town is family friendly, but you may want to avoid staying in the nightlife area at the south end of Mae Nam Kwai Road. For a more kid-friendly setting, stay towards the north end of this road or on the west side of the river. The nearby countryside also has quality resorts set in quieter areas along the River Kwai.

Explore ruins by bike

Founded in the 12th century, Sukhothai (Dawning Lotus) was the first Thai kingdom to conquer most of the land within modern Thailand's borders. Guided by leaders like Ramkamhaeng, now a revered figure, this was the kingdom where the Thai script was created and where a distinctive Thai culture first emerged. Sukhothai's three zones can be explored in a day. One key site is the former royal temple Wat Mahathat, with its lotus-shaped chedi spires and exquisite carvings. Another is a seated 11-metre wide Buddha image at nearby Wat Si Chum which is hidden by a brick enclosure accessed via a narrow passageway, which makes for a dramatic approach. A third is the meditation monastery at Wat Saphan Hin set on a wooded hill, to which King Ramkamhaeng once rode on a white elephant. The atmosphere is serene even today. Kamphaeng Phet's ruins are less extensive than those of Sukhothai, but the reclining Buddha image at Wat Phra Kaeo and dozens of 14th century elephant statues at Wat Chang Rob are no less captivating. Away from the historical sites, Kamphaeng Phet's riverfront makes for a relaxing sunset stroll followed by a search for tasty Thai treats in the night market. Compact layouts and plentiful tree cover make the historical parks in Sukhothai and Kamphaeng Phet great for bicycles, which can be rented. If your family has a keen interest in history, consider another historical park, Si Satchanalai, set in a rural area 50km north of Sukhothai.

Explore the temples of Chiang Rai

Thailand's northernmost province is often overlooked by travellers assuming that Chiang Mai is the must-visit destination up north. Both are worth a visit, but Chiang Rai is hard to beat for vistas of layered mountains and one of Asia's grandest rivers, the Mekong. Start with three of Thailand's most imaginative structures: Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Wat Rang Suea Ten (Blue Temple) and Baan Dum (Black House). Designed by two Thai artists, they feature creative interpretations of the country’s spiritual themes in art and architecture. Then there are great options in the countryside. Soak up Mekong River views in relaxing Chiang Khong; observe 700-year-old ruins in Chiang Saen, an early capital of the Lanna kingdom that predates Chiang Mai; gaze at the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar in an area that was once notorious for drug smuggling. When you're ready to hit the mountains, enjoy the temperate flower gardens and tea farms perched at 1,100 to 1,700 metres at Phu Chee Fah, Doi Tung, and Mae Salong. It gets chilly up there so pack semi-warm clothes. For travellers with older kids, there are several tour outfits offering jungle trekking to villages that are home to hill tribes, such as the Lahu. For a real adventure, take a bus to Tha Ton in northern Chiang Mai province and then catch a longtail boat down the Kok River to Chiang Rai.

Prachuap Khiri Khan

Road trip down the Prachuap coastline

Prachuap Khiri Khan, Prachuap for short, separates Bangkok to the north and the islands and beaches to the south, making it perfect for lazy road trips following the coastline in either direction. The most popular tourist destination is Hua Hin, a well developed city with plenty of family-friendly resorts overlooking miles of beaches. The centre is cramped and noisy, but the southern part of town is a relaxing base for attractions such as the Black Mountain Water Park and Wat Khao Takiab, the Chopsticks Hill Temple, where you can meet monkeys and enjoy the sea views. Hua Hin is also a golfing centre and tour companies offer club rental and transport to any one of 10 courses, some very scenic. Further south, Pranburi is a more laid-back seaside city with a mangrove-forest walkway and some of the best wind and kite-surfing in Thailand. It's also close to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park with quiet beaches, magnificent limestone caves and a wetland rich in birdlife. Prachuap town is a kid-friendly destination in its own right. It has a monkey-filled hilltop temple at Khao Chong Krachok, a family-oriented beach at Ao Manao, and a seafront walkway where fishers offload their catch. And within striking distance are the refreshing Huai Yang waterfall and the Kui Buri National Park, the best place in Thailand to spot elephants in the wild. Note for all travellers, but especially those with kids, road safety in Thailand leaves a lot to be desired and a high degree of caution is advised.

Chiang Khan

Get off the beaten path in Loei

Loei province in Thailand's northeast draws a fraction of the visitors of the more popular destinations to the south. This makes it a thrilling place to visit with older (and more adventurous) kids. Chiang Khan's historic temples, heritage houses, trendy cafes and Thai massage shops make it fun for a day of strolling or cycling. In the late afternoon enjoy the lengthy walkway along the Mekong and watch fishers casting out their nets before puttering home on longtail boats as the sun sinks behind the fluffy green hills. It is enchanting. Near Chiang Khan is a mountain, Phu Tok, from which you have views of the Mekong - and there's no need to hike thanks to the songthaews that can truck you to the viewpoint. A glass-floor skywalk set over the confluence of the Mekong and Hueang rivers is a thrill. Further west, Phu Ruea National Park has waterfalls accessible via a road that winds up to a 1,365-metre summit with tremendous views. In the south of the province, climb to the 1,316-metre plateau at Phu Kradueng if you’re fit enough. There’s a campground there where temperatures can drop close to freezing at night. Alternatively, head to Suan Pha Hin Ngam for a tractor ride between vertical karst cliffs. Buses access some parts of Loei province, but renting a car in one of the larger provinces nearby, such as Khon Kaen or Udon Thani, would make it easier to explore the countryside. Loei also fits nicely into a wider tour of the Northeast that might include Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom and other provinces along the Mekong.

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Thailand Family Tours

Visiting thailand with kids: need to know, everything you need to plan a happy trip.

Thai people adore kids, often doting over foreign children like celebrities. Visitors to Thailand with kids usually encounter the best of the famed Thai charm.

And the country also offers terrific value, quality accommodation for all budgets, a huge selection of destinations and activities, and the travel and tourism infrastructure is well established – all of which means the country is beautiful, welcoming and safe.

Here are my top tips on planning a safe and happy trip to Thailand with the kids.

Getting around Thailand with kids is easier than you think

You can hire a car but using public transport and hiring local drivers or tour companies for excursions works well in much of Thailand. Bus, train and ferry tickets can almost always be booked as you go, unless you plan to get really off the beaten track or you’re intending to use the sleeper trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, or Surat Thani. Don't expect sleeper berths if you don’t book ahead.

You can buy bus and train tickets online, but it's often easier to get tickets at transport stations or from small travel agencies at street level, many of which can be found online as well. Widely available at popular tourist destinations, these old-style travel outlets can arrange a transfer from your hotel to the bus or ferry to ease your journey. They can also help to arrange tours, private drivers, and more.

Most families book lodgings and internal flights in advance. Booking rooms weeks before you leave home could mean lower rates, availability of the best lodgings, and more time to enjoy your trip. Do compare room rates at a given property's official website (if available) with hotel-booking websites.

If your trip coincides with holiday periods - Christmas week, Lunar New Year and Songkran (Thai New Year), for example - be sure to book rooms well in advance or you might find slim pickings, especially on the islands.

One note of warning for families: Taxis often don’t have child-safety seats.

Getting around the cities with kids

Bangkok's metro can be confusing. It consists of three systems - BTS, MRT and SRT, and between them they reach most of the key areas and attractions, and both airports. If you’re switching from one system to another - and sometimes if you’re switching to a different line within the same system - you have to pay a separate fare. All three are safe, clean and reliable, but getting a pram or bulky luggage on board can be a challenge during rush hours. The staff do their best to help, but some stations are not wheelchair accessible.

Ferries cross Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, and also cover longer distances. The cramped local ferries stop at dozens of piers marked by orange flags, while ferries geared towards tourists only stop near major attractions, and cost three times more. Another ferry runs on the San Saeb Canal, linking the historic district to the main shopping area, and beyond. All the ferries can be fun to use, but getting on and off the local ferries can be hectic at busy times.

Taxis are cheap and easy to catch anywhere in Bangkok. Grab is the most popular ride-hailing app.

Regular taxis have meters that drivers are required by law to use, but some will try to negotiate a fixed price at the start of the journey. Others may not turn the meter on and then surprise the unsuspecting passenger with an exorbitant bill. Before getting in, politely ask the driver to use the meter. If they refuse, simply flag down the next one.

Tuk tuks (three-wheeled motorised trikes with seating for three adults behind the driver) are common. The noisy machines are best avoided during rush hours in Bangkok, when you risk breathing in traffic fumes. And be warned, they do not have seatbelts.

Tuk tuks do not have meters so you need to negotiate the fare with the driver, which often means the ride will be pricier than the taxi equivalent.

The most common form of public transport in provincial Thailand is the songthaew, a small pick-up truck with a roof over two benches in the back of the truck. They usually have pre-determined routes but in some areas they can also be booked as taxis. They tend to be cheap, but drivers in touristy areas will charge a premium. Again, be warned, they don’t have seatbelts.

If you want to walk, Bangkok can be a challenge even without kids. Smaller cities are more pedestrian-friendly and some towns are conducive to bicycles, available from travel agents and, sometimes, from lodgings. Motorbike rental is more widely available, but do read the safety concerns below.

Getting between the cities with kids

With an international driving licence you can hire a car at the airports as well as at local offices, either on the spot or by booking ahead. Many travel agencies offer cars and vans with drivers, be it for a single journey or an entire trip. You can also arrange a taxi or songthaew for private day trips but you’ll need to negotiate the price with the driver.

Not surprisingly, hiring a car will be more expensive than public transport, but it may make sense if you have a large family. It may also be the only way to get a child-safety seat.

For longer journeys, Thailand has well-developed networks of inter-provincial bus, train, sea and air services. Dabbling in each is a good way to go.

Most domestic flights are cheaper in Thailand than in the West, and Bangkok links with 34 commercial airports. Phuket and Ko Samui are the only islands with airports, but some airlines offer all-in tickets covering the flight, a van to the pier and a ferry to your island. Airlines providing domestic services in Thailand include THAI, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air and Thai VietJet. You won’t find some of them on booking sites. Note that Bangkok has two major airports, Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK). If you have to change planes in Bangkok, be sure to book flights that use the same airport, or factor in an extra two hours to take a shuttle bus from one to the other.

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates trains on four main lines: Northern, Western, Southern and North-eastern. Railways do not run to most of the eastern seaboard or the southwest coast. New trains are now in service on popular routes, but most are old and slow. They can be fun though, and private cabins are available along with sleeper bunks and three classes of seats. For short trips, second-class fares with cushioned seats, open windows and fans are usually suitable for families.

Intercity bus

The sprawling public bus system - a mix of many private companies and the government’s reliable Transport Company (with a 999 logo) - reaches from Bangkok to every provincial capital. Passenger vans, or rot tuu, are increasingly replacing the full-size rot tour buses for regional routes. These vans are often cramped and dangerously driven, with no child safety seats, so do check if a regular bus is available instead. Many of the full-size buses have bathrooms.

Boats & ferries

Boats to the islands range from multi-deck vehicle ferries to large speedboats, and slow wooden vessels access small islands near the mainland. Island-hopping ferries connect islands within certain regions and archipelagos, but only during the dry season in the Ko Chang archipelago (eastern Gulf of Thailand), and the lower Andaman Sea south of Ko Lanta.

Longtail boats

These traditional fishing boats are great fun for private island-hopping over short distances, especially in the southwest where these banana-shaped vessels are most common. You'll also find sailboat, speedboat and yacht charters available online and through travel agencies at popular islands and beaches.

Staying safe and healthy in Thailand with kids

Travel can be slow and tiring. Trains run late, taxis get stuck in traffic, language barriers, though usually surmountable with patience, can cause confusion and frustration. Some travel agents, taxi drivers and seemingly friendly strangers do try to overcharge or scam foreigners.

Be on your guard, but it's also important to maintain jai yen - a cool heart. Thai society values composure. Staying calm and patient in difficult situations nearly always helps to solve problems. Getting angry and confrontational invariably makes things worse.

Most of Thailand is suitable for families with children, but keep the following safety issues in mind.

On the road

Thailand has one of the world’s highest rates of road traffic deaths. Unlicensed driving, drink-driving, riding motorbikes on the wrong side of the road, and other reckless road uses, are all common.

Planes and trains are safer than full-size buses (especially at night), which in turn are safer than public vans. Motorbikes are the most dangerous. Every year tourists riding with little understanding of Thai traffic laws and unwritten road rules end up in hospital, or worse, with hefty medical bills not covered by travel insurance.

An international or Thai motorcycle licence is essential if you're going to ride even a low-powered scooter, and check that your insurance policy gives you the right cover. Motorbike rental outlets do not usually offer insurance. Typically, the renter is responsible for damage to the bike and for injuries they cause others. Helmets are essential, and beware that large islands like Phuket, Ko Samui, and Ko Chang are particularly dangerous.

Thailand is a left-driving country like the UK and Australia, but driving similarities end there. Aggressiveness is the norm. Courtesies common in the West, like stopping to let pedestrians cross the road, can be dangerous in Thailand because they're likely to cause confusion. Also, when a driver flashes their headlights in Thailand, it means “stay out of my way!”.

If you’re walking, assume that pedestrians never have the right of way over a vehicle, even at zebra crossings (crosswalks). Beware of crossing a road even if a walk signal is flashing, and use pedestrian bridges if possible. Keep small children close to you.

Crime and violence

Muggings are rare in Thailand, but watch out for bag snatchers and pickpockets. Sexual violence and harassment of women is a longstanding problem, but the threat is reduced significantly for women travelling with a family. Violent crime occurs mostly late at night, often at bars, and typically involving personal conflicts.

Thailand's political situation has long been plagued by instability and repeated military coups. Turbulent political demonstrations hit Bangkok periodically with some violence and public disorder, though foreigners have never been targeted. However, try to avoid any demonstrations you come across.

Violence related to a long-running insurgency in Thailand's deep southeast rarely spills out of the provinces of Pattani, Narathiwat, Yala, and the southernmost districts of Songkhla. That apart, the south is no less safe than other regions.

Sea and animal threats

Look for red flags indicating unsafe swimming conditions on beaches throughout Thailand. Each rainy season, riptides and rough seas cause drownings. Don't hesitate to cancel or postpone a boat trip if the sea is rough or storms are forecast. Some boat captains will risk the safety of tourists (and themselves) rather than lose a day’s income due to bad weather. If possible, use large slow boats or longtail boats, rather than speedboats, for day tours or island-hopping. Also be careful about where you snorkel - boats are not always driven safely.

Most of the stray dogs, cats and monkeys you’ll see on beaches and in cities are harmless, but occasionally one may bite. You might want to carry a packet of dried chilli pepper to toss at an animal that gets too close for comfort. Consider a rabies vaccination before you go.

Shark attacks are almost non-existent. Bull sharks have inflicted injuries once every six years, on average, over the past two decades. However, box jellyfish can be fatal, mainly during the rainy season. Thailand's many poisonous snakes avoid humans, but beware of camouflaged tree vipers when exploring around waterfalls.

Mosquitoes can be vicious, particularly during the rainy season. Malaria is only a concern if travelling in remote jungle areas, but mosquitoes do transmit the potentially deadly dengue fever in more populated areas.

Hot and cold

The heat in Thailand can be dangerous and heat stroke is common among tourists. Keep hydrated and try to avoid being out and about during the midday peak heat. Sunscreen, light clothing and hats are essential, but take something warm as well. It can get surprisingly cool in mountainous areas especially in the dry season, and indoors, air-con is often kept very cool.

Food and water safety

Thai food can be extremely spicy, but cooks often tone down the heat for foreign tourists. Burgers and pasta are easy to find, and higher-end supermarkets like Tops or Villa Market have decent selections of imported foods.

Thailand is famous for street food, and enjoying a meal curb-side can be a thrill for both the flavours and atmosphere. Consider hiring an experienced street food guide in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai if you're worried about food hygiene or intimidated by the lack of English-language menus. A food tour can also be a great way to interact with locals while learning about everyday culture.

Out-of-sight restaurant kitchens are not necessarily cleaner than street kitchens out in the open. Good indicators of hygiene are the containers set on tables for dried chillies and other spices. If they don't look clean or recently refilled, go elsewhere.

Check that meat is fully cooked. Food that sits out in hot weather - on trays at khao gaeng (rice and curry) shops for example - is more likely to cause food poisoning than made-to-order dishes.

Drinking only filtered water is sensible, and vending machines that pour filtered water into reusable containers are fairly common. Ice served at restaurants and street stalls is typically made with filtered water and although some travellers avoid fresh fruits and vegetables washed in tap water, this is usually unnecessary.

It’s a myth that Thailand's tap water comes straight from the canals. Most of it goes through extensive purification. A five-year study completed in 2018 found that 98.4 percent of Bangkok's tap water met safety criteria set by the World Health Organisation. However, water quality in rural areas is not always up to that standard.

Most of Thailand's best hospitals are privately run and Bangkok Hospital is one of the largest and most reliable.

Thailand with kids packing essentials

If you’re travelling with very small children bring a baby sling and perhaps a light, foldable pram for tight urban areas. City footpaths can be narrow, and even non-existent in places, uneven, and with plenty of obstacles in the way.

Minimarts such as 7-Eleven stock nappies, wet wipes, baby formula, mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Larger stores like Big C and Lotus's (formerly Tesco Lotus) offer more choice. Boots and Watsons are two of the most popular chain drug stores. Locally-owned pharmacies are also common and the staff usually speak enough English to help you.

Baby foods and formulas sold in Thailand are safe, but the instructions on the packets may be in Thai only, so you may want to bring your own. Electric kettles are common in hotel rooms and hot water is free at most minimarts.

Public restrooms are easy to find but they may not always be clean. Soap is not always provided, so carry hand sanitiser. Some toilets are flushed by pouring water from provided buckets and although Western-style toilets are common, you may still be faced with a squat toilet.

ATMs, banks and foreign currency exchange booths are easy to find in all cities and most tourist centres, but some small islands lack ATMs. Credit cards are accepted at large stores and restaurants, and increasingly, for public transport. Cash is usually needed for street food, tuk tuk rides, and other small purchases.

Quiet beaches on Khao Lak

Thailand with kids: FAQs

Your questions, our expert's answers, any recommendations for kid-friendly accommodations in thailand.

It depends what you’re looking for, but I think there are three broad categories of family-friendly accommodation in Thailand:

Kid friendly resorts

You’ll find plenty of family friendly resorts with good pools in parts of Khao Lak, Krabi, Koh Lanta and Koh Chang, as well as in Bangkok. Koh Kut is truly a stunning island in the east that has quite a few family visitors. Though much smaller, Koh Ngai is also known for its family resorts.

Villa / apartment rentals

Some recommended short term rentals include Koh Jum Villas on Koh Jum, Baba Beach Resort (formerly Golden Buddha) on Koh Phra Thong, Railei Beach Club on Railay in Krabi, and Good Time Resort on Koh Mak. You’ll find plenty more on Airbnb and Agoda. Koh Samui may be too busy for some, but it's also worth a mention for its plethora of affordable villas / houses including some on the quiet side of the island along beaches like Lipa Noi and Mae Nam.

Traditional bungalows

If you came to Thailand pre-kids you probably remember sleeping under mozzie nets while fans hum and geckos roam the wall. Don't be afraid to share this quintessential Thailand travel experience with the kids! You’ll find quality family bungalows on quieter islands, for example at Jungle Hill on Koh Jum, Horizon Eco Resort on Koh Phra Thong, and the wonderful Our Jungle House in the Khao Sok valley, just to name a few.

We want to do day trips but we're worried about motorbiking with a toddler. Of Samui, Chang or Lanta which is best for getting around?

You can get around safely without a motorbike in all of the main islands; there are usually other family-friendly forms of transport.

Some of the islands, like Chang and Samui, have songthaews (pick-up trucks with roofed benches in the back) that connect all of the main beaches, although they are pricey compared to the mainland; expect to pay at least a few hundred baht even if going a short distance.

Lanta and other islands around there (such as Jum) have salengs (sidecar motorbike taxis) which are more affordable. You'll also find tuk tuks and regular taxis in places. Or, if you have an international drivers licence and would prefer to drive yourself, car and jeep rental is available on Samui, Lanta and Chang.

Otherwise, if you want to go out you can always ask the reception staff to call a driver for you; indeed that is often the only way to find a driver on Kood. But finding a saleng on Lanta or a songthaew on Chang is typically easy in all the main areas.

We’re thinking of travelling to Thailand for 6 weeks in February/March next year. Is it safe to travel to Thailand with a 10 month old baby and 3 year old toddler. Would having a 10 month old baby be more hassle than it's worth?

Ultimately this depends on your baby, your itinerary, and your own comfort zones. But overall yes Thailand is perfectly safe to visit with kids of all ages. I recently met a German family doing a six month trip with a one-, three- and six-year old and they were having a great time! Aside from the general family travel advice in this guide, my most important recommendation for February/March is to stick to the southern beaches and islands, as further north the air quality can be awful at that time of year.

Of Ko Samui, Ko Chang, or Ko Lanta, which would you recommend most for a family with a toddler?

I think all three of the areas you've singled out (Samui, Lanta, Chang) can be great for families with a toddler. Two weeks is plenty of time so wherever you are, you could easily spend a week at the main island and then take one of the easily available island hopping boats (dry season only) to check out some of the smaller islands. I always recommend some of those smaller islands because the beaches are often more beautiful than on the main island.

Of the three areas I personally prefer the Koh Chang Archipelago and Koh Lanta / Krabi / Trang areas because, although Koh Chang and Koh Lanta are both sizable tourist destinations, they are both more laid back and not as developed or mainstream as Koh Samui.

Although Koh Chang does have some slightly seedy nightlife on the main road near White Sand Beach, neither Chang or Lanta are as seedy as parts of Samui, around Chaweng and Lamai. (That said, the south of Samui is a whole different story and you could easily stay there and never even stop at Chaweng or Lamai if you wanted.)

One thing that Samui, Chang and Lanta have in common – and I would also say this about Koh Phangan – is that they're all beautiful but also big enough to have totally different "vibes" or "scenes" in different areas. So on any of them you can stay in a quieter area that still puts you within relatively easy access of all attractions and other parts of the islands.

If you want to do some island hopping, a slowboat from Koh Chang to Koh Mak to Koh Kood, or ferry from Krabi town to Koh Lanta and then private longtail boat around the Trang islands, would be, I think, more exciting than the larger ferries to Koh Samui / Koh Phangan / Koh Tao.

We're visiting Thailand with four kids in March-April and are concerned about the burning season in the north. Do you have any advice?

March to April is peak burning season, and during that period Chiang Mai in the north is routinely ranked among the worst air quality on earth. Visiting Thailand with kids, I'd definitely avoid the north during that period and if you're worried about air quality, I'd probably avoid Isaan and the central region, too. Perhaps even more pressing for travelling with family, the heat can be brutal during this time.

On the other hand, the coast and islands in southern Thailand are lovely in March/April. Still hot, but with the cooling effect of the ocean to help with the kids.

If you feel like you're missing out on the north you can visit scenic mountain areas like Khao Sok and Khao Luang. And for the best family friendly beaches / islands at that time, I'd recommend Khao Lak on the Andaman coast – it's popular with families, with plentiful activities including day tours to some of Thailand's most spectacular islands, namely the Similans and Koh Surin. The Gulf side such as Koh Samui and around is also pretty in March - April.

We're visiting Hua Hin with my in-laws, but are there more beautiful places to visit nearby with kids aged 3, 7 and 9?

I agree there are probably better places than Hua Hin to visit with kids, although I can see the appeal – it has good restaurants, markets and accommodation. And there are some great family-friendly day trips from Hua Hin:

One highly underrated idea is Kui Buri National Park, which is by far the best place in Thailand to spot wild elephants (as well as gaur, the world's largest bovine species). I'm 40 years old but had all the excitement of a kid when piling into the back of a pick-up truck and driving slowly down dirt tracks into the mountains, stopping often to watch the elephants in the forest and grasslands. You have close to a 100% chance of seeing wild elephants in Kui Buri National Park, whereas it's something like 10% in Khao Yai and maybe 30% in Kaeng Krachan, both of which are far better known for wildlife than Kui Buri.

Other family-friendly day trips out of Hua Hin include the Pala-U Waterfall where you also might spot wild elephants; the mangrove forest park in Pranburi where kids enjoy peeping the crabs from elevated walkways that pierce a vast mangrove forest; the Khao Tao area where Sai Noi Beach is a well-kept secret that is arguably among the best mainland beaches in all of Thailand and situated a short hike from a good viewpoint with a Buddha image; and finally the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park which has some fabulous caves and viewpoints amid a dramatic karst mountain landscape to go with notably scenic lotus-filled wetlands on the inland side of the park.

I'd also keep Sam Roi Yot in mind as a secondary overnight destination. Just north of the park, the lengthy beach known as Hat Sam Roi Yot or Hat Phu Noi has some good family beach resorts – one called Dolphin Bay is popular thanks to its big pool with waterslides – with a much quieter and more laid-back vibe than Hua Hin.

We're a big group (seven adults, two kids aged 3 and 6), can you recommend some beach areas that might suit?

I'll suggest one destination in the Gulf of Thailand and another on the Andaman coast. Which one you choose partially depends on when you're travelling. The rainy season in the Gulf starts around Aug-Sep and lasts straight through December. Rainy season on the Andaman coast is from around May-June through October, although in recent years it seems to be starting later and lasting into Nov or even Dec.

In the Gulf, Koh Samui might work for your group because it has plenty of private house / villa rentals. These cater for many budgets, from extreme luxury on the beach to rather modest options set down inland lanes. So if you're looking for a place to all stay together in one big house, with its own kitchen and perhaps its own swimming pool, consider Samui.

The areas that are quietest and generally considered best for families are Samui's northern beaches like Bophut, Mae Nam and Bang Po, as well as southern and western beaches like Taling Ngam and Lipa Noi. Chaweng and Lamai are the two busiest beaches and both have some seedy nightlife along with techno-blasting beach parties, etc., but there are rental houses along the quieter nearby inland lanes.

On Samui you have a solid list of attractions on the island, and those who want more adventure will find some of Thailand's most dazzling islands if day tripping into the nearby Ang Thong National Park. You could hire a private boat for that or book into a group tour. Another nearby island that you might find worth a day trip is Koh Matsum, where kids often enjoy seeing the domesticated boars that live on the beach.

Meanwhile on the Andaman coast, the Khao Lak area is not far from Phuket but much quieter and without the traffic jams and seedy nightlife (to be fair, several parts of Phuket, such as Bang Tao and Kamala beaches, are also good for families). Khao Lak might work for you because there's loads to do, including day tours to nearby Similan or Surin islands, both of which are also part of national parks and also rank among the most dazzling islands in Thailand. Or you could go to the sea turtle conservation centre or, if you're really lucky, even possibly see turtles hatching on nearby Khao Lampi and Thai Mueang beaches. Other kid friendly activities here are visiting the old town market in nearby Takua Pa, a boat tour of the magnificent Phang Nga Bay, miniature golf, the butterfly farm, and the night markets and many different beaches within the Khao Lak area.

Perhaps not ideal for younger kids but worthwhile for everyone else, is a visit to the deeply moving 2004 tsunami memorial just north of Khao Lak in Ban Nam Khem.

Can you recommend any mountain areas for a larger family?

I think Chiang Rai would be a great choice for a large family, particularly if you're willing to splash out on tours or a private van for excursions outside the provincial capital city.

Chiang Rai is a bit further off the beaten path than Chiang Mai, but still relatively easy to reach and with plenty of local travel offices and tour operators that can assist English-speaking travellers.

The provincial capital is full of photogenic temples and museums and also has a great night market. There are loads of trips from the city, including the Tham Luang Cave that was the site of the incredible rescue of 12 boys and their football coach back in 2018. Other good options include mountain viewpoints like Doi Tung and historic Mekong River towns like Chiang Khan, or if going further up into the mountains, the tea-growing outpost of Mae Salong.

Do keep in mind that, as with virtually any mountainous area in Thailand, travelling involves winding roads with switchback turns. Also the entire north gets hit by bad air pollution late in the dry season. I do not suggest going up there in March or April and even in February the air can get bad as farmers start to burn off the stubble in their fields.

One other suggestion is Kanchanaburi, which isn't too far from Bangkok and can be fun for families especially if you're interested in the World War II history. If you go, the Hellfire Pass Memorial and Museum is not to be missed. Kanchanaburi province has some of Thailand's best waterfalls, such as Huai Mae Khamin and Erawan. While it might be too far out of the way for a large family, the lake mountain town of Sangkhlaburi is an enchanting place.

In this guide:

Family-friendly islands without the party crowds, best places to see thailand's nature & wildlife, urban culture for families and kids, relaxed beaches with laid-back vibes.

• Southeast Asia

Physical Level

Duration (days), suggested itinerary.

• Duration: 14 days
• Visiting: Bangkok (3 days) → Kanchanaburi (3) → Khao Sok (2) → Ko Lanta (3) → Ao Nang (3)
• Activities: Cities, history, beach, family-friendly

This is a variation on the classic Bangkok & beach itinerary, especially tweaked for younger travellers.

Thailand has worked to shed its reputation as a hard-partying backpacker destination and reinvent itself for a wider range of visitors. This is one of Asia's most accessible places for family travellers, and the following itinerary gives you an easy-going introduction to the country that's suitable for all ages.

This route begins in Bangkok navigating meandering waterways via traditional longtail boats, before venturing to the River Kwai region, where you will you'll visit striking waterfalls near Kanchanaburi . Immerse yourself in the heart of Khao Sok National Park before finishing with a visit to two of the best beaches on Thailand's eastern coast.

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Based in Thailand since 2011, David first waded into Southeast Asia in the early 2000s via friendships forged in the Thai, Vietnamese and Karen communities of Vermont, almost Canada, USA. He is a bona fide nerd in maps, islands and travel planning with a research background in Buddhism and the environmental, political and human rights issues of Southeast Asia. Bylines include CNN Travel , Conde Nast Traveller China and more than 100 Travelfish guides.

Just north of the rowdier Phuket, I think Khao Lak has the perfect balance of peace and action for families. The area covers several miles-long expanses of soft sand rimmed by terrific family resorts and restaurants offering Western and Thai menus.

Nightlife is minimal, but a good night market and many boutiques keep the after-dark scene lively enough for most families. Unlike some of Thailand's busier beach towns, the mood is kid-friendly: very laid-back with a jungle-backed landscape that is dotted with coconut farms.

The most popular beach is Nang Thong, where an offshore light tower often features in sunset photos. Nearby beaches - Bang Niang, Pakarang, Maphrao, Pak Weep and Bang Sak - each have resorts of their own; the scene gets sleepier the further north you go up the coast.

Khao Lak's Thap Lamu Pier is the jumping off point for day trips to the Similans, a chain of nine protected islands with powdery white-sand beaches and some of the finest diving and snorkelling in Thailand. There’s no shortage of boat tours and diving excursions on offer.

Back on the mainland, kids enjoy swimming at the natural pool fed by Ton Pling Waterfall; stop at a butterfly and orchid farm on the way to see historic architecture and paddle through a mangrove forest known as Little Amazon in the nearby town of Takua Pa.

The 2004 Asian tsunami hit Khao Lak hard and museums and memorials are dedicated to the roughly 3,000 people who died locally in the tragedy. Khao Lak now has several tsunami shelters and an early warning system in place.

Home to at least one million people, Thailand's second city straddles the Ping River valley in the scenic and mountainous north of Thailand.

The city is one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations. There are hundreds of guesthouses, hotels, travel offices and eateries in the highly walkable, square-shaped historic district that is rimmed by some of the original city walls.

Chiang Mai is probably best known for its glistening 14th to 17th century Lanna-style temples. With their gilded surfaces, multi-tiered sloped roofs and lacquer doors, they are among the most graceful examples of Thailand's historic architecture.

The city is also famous for its night markets, including a nightly bazaar east of the old town and a Saturday and Sunday “walking street” that takes over an entire road west of Tha Pae Gate in the old town. The atmosphere is lively with street musicians, artists painting on-the-spot portraits, and a variety of street food.

Another highlight for visitors and older kids are the many Thai cookery classes in the city.

Thailand's capital city; vast, bustling, traditional in places, sleekly modern in others, and fascinating for visitors of all ages.

Bangkok is surprisingly accessible for family travellers. Public transportation is excellent and easy to navigate, the food is varied and, despite its size, the city and its inhabitants are exceptionally welcoming to kids.

A half day in the historic district is a must to take in key sites like Wat Pho's 46m-long gilded reclining Buddha, the lavish mix of 18th and 19th century architecture at the Grand Palace, and Phu Khao Thong, the Golden Mount affording views of the city set to chiming prayer bells. In between, thrill the kids with a ride in one of the city’s sputtering tuk tuks.

If the kids are suffering from temple overload there's plenty more to keep them entertained for a day or two.

There’s mask painting, puppetry and evocative canal-side life at the Artist House of Khlong Bang Luang, one of several stops on Thonburi's famous khlong (canal) tours.

And if they need a real break from sightseeing, for an all-out kids’ day in Bangkok try the Dream World amusement park and make education fun at the Children’s Discovery Museum. Throw in a river ferry ride on the Chao Phraya followed by dinner, and finish with a spin on the ferris wheel at Asiatique.

It's not all kid-friendly paradise, however. The city can feel cramped, choked with traffic and often extremely hot. Don’t squeeze too many activities into a day, and look for air-conditioned spots to cool down. Try to avoid using the metro and the roads during rush hours.

The Thai islands have some reputational baggage when it comes to the all-night party vibes, but there are plenty of islands that are perfectly suited for kids and family travellers. I'd put Ko Mak and Ko Kood firmly on the kid-friendly list.

On star-shaped Ko Mak you can rent bicycles to explore the gently rolling terrain blanketed in pineapple and rubber farms, and Ko Rang, the prime snorkelling and diving destination in the archipelago, is easily reached.

There are islets accessible by kayak or private boat tour, the largest of which is Ko Kradat, where herds of deer roam freely. The white sand of Ko Kham is also a hit near Ao Suan Yai, one of Ko Mak's two main beaches.

Ko Kood is a larger island with more than a dozen beaches that are among the finest in Thailand. When not relaxing seaside you might kayak the mangrove-draped rivers, cool off at one of three waterfalls, and marvel at 500-year-old macca trees that tower amid the mountainous interior.

Ko Mak is easy to get around, but some of Ko Kood's beaches are remote and traversing the island can be expensive and tricky with younger kids. Sand flies become a problem on both islands at times, especially on Ko Mak. In the dry season, you could first head to the larger island of Ko Chang and then catch up with island-hopping ferries that stop at Ko Mak and Ko Kood, as well as the smaller island of Ko Wai.

Elephants have a troubled and controversial place in the Thai tourism industry. The basic rule of thumb is to avoid elephant riding or any close-contact, captive elephant experiences. Even so-called "sanctuaries" can be a problem. But one that is universally recognised as above board is the Elephant Nature Park just outside of Chiang Mai. A must-visit for visitors with kids.

Founded in 1350 and destroyed by invading Burmese in 1767, the once-glorious city of Ayutthaya preceded Bangkok as the capital of Siam, as Thailand was known before 1939. Its ruins are extensive and easier to reach than those of Sukhothai.

The UNESCO-listed historical park covers part of an island rimmed by a canal and three rivers. Here you'll find Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the former royal temple with slender bell-shaped chedis and the remains of a once-ornate palace. Many of the ruins here dot the city to form a contrast between modern and ancient. There are many noteworthy historical sites on the outskirts of Ayutthaya, accessible by longtail boat or the area's signature frog-shaped tuk tuks.

The Million Toy Museum is a hit with kids, while adults appreciate the remains of settlements built by Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese and other foreign merchants who once prospered in the city. You can climb the towering chedi at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and imagine the approach of the Burmese invaders.

A highlight of Lopburi is Phra Phrang Sam Yod, featuring a trio of corncob spires built by Khmers in the 12th century and later embellished with Thai artistry. Another is Phra Narai Ratchaniwet, a 17th century palace that's now an excellent museum.

Just 70km north of Bangkok, it’s perfect for a day trip or stays of a night or two. A further 60km up the Northern railway line is Lopburi, another historic centre. The thousands of monkeys at Lopburi can be brazen, sneaking up to snatch food or even cameras and wallets before scampering away. Though mostly harmless, they do sometimes bite. Don't let kids pet them, and keep a tight grip on your valuables.

Krabi, on Thailand's southwest coast, is a glorious, family-friendly alternative to the often seedy and rowdy Phuket.

Ao Nang is Krabi province's most touristy town on the mainland coast, with a large selection of comfortable family-friendly resorts. A little further north, Noppharat Thara and Khlong Muang beaches are quieter and less nightlife-oriented. The provincial capital is also worth a visit for food and culture.

Close to Krabi town, you can hop in a longtail boat and climb into the caves at Khao Kanab Nam before taking a spin around the pastoral island of Ko Klang with its mosques, water buffalo and batik workshops.

Outside the town, the viewpoint at Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) is breathtaking, but try climbing the 1,237 steps only if the whole family is in good shape. Other options include hiking to the 11-tier Huai Toh waterfall, or along the scenic Dragon Spine ridge known as Khao Ngon Nak.

On the mainland, but only accessible by boat from the Ao Nang area, is Railay, a peninsula with top-notch beaches framed by vertical karst cliffs that are well known to rock climbers. While Railay has several resorts, many visitors drop by on a boat tour that also covers the islands of Ko Poda and Ko Gai - Chicken Island because of its hen-like shape. Further north, Ko Hong rewards day trippers with a viewpoint set near a jade-hued lagoon.

Krabi province also includes the islands of Ko Phi Phi, Ko Jum and Ko Lanta, among others. Day trips are possible from Krabi town and Ao Nang, but I'd recommend you treat them as separate destinations and try to spend several nights there if possible.

Khao Sok is one of Thailand's best-known national parks, and makes a convenient stop-off for family itineraries calling at Thailand's southern beach destinations.

The park’s centrepiece is a reservoir, Ratchaphrapa or Chiew Lan, one of the most magnificent bodies of fresh water in Southeast Asia. The emerald water glistens between 1,000-metre high limestone mountains. You can take a boat tour lasting a few hours or a full day, or you can spend a night at one of 17 raft-house lodgings. They all come with kayaks.

West of the reservoir are caves and waterfalls, and a trail guide is required to access most of them. This area is also where you'll find the rafflesia kerrii, the fire-red, so-called dinosaur flower that smells rank and is one of the world's largest flowers when it blooms in the dry season. Though large mammals are rare, Khao Sok is full of birds and reptiles.

Most people will visit as part of an organised tour that includes accommodation, transfers in/out of the park, and guided nature hikes.

Trang province, south of Krabi, is another of Thailand's many lesser-visited spots, and is a good place to do some kid-friendly island-hopping.

The capital of Trang province, south of Krabi on the Andaman coast, is worth a night if you're a food lover. Rise early for dim sum, deep-fried tofu and steamed buns (sala bao) with locally-grown Robusta coffee, then sample the many curries and Trang's signature roast pork dish in the markets.

Ko Mook is Trang province's most popular island, even if it's downright sleepy compared to Ko Phi Phi or Ko Lanta. Explore the fishing villages, hike to the viewpoint and take a longtail boat or kayaks to Tham Morakot. A dark 50-metre sea cave that might frighten little ones, ends at a white sand beach concealed by a vertical ring of limestone.

Easy to reach from Ko Mook by affordable private longtail boat, the smaller islands of Ko Kradan and Ko Ngai both have beaches that rank among the most stunning in the country. They also offer fine resorts, reefs for off-the-beach snorkelling, and forest trails ending at sparsely developed coves.

You could finish with Ko Libong, which draws yet fewer tourists, but is home to quaint villages and one of the last herds of dugongs (similar to manatees) left in Thailand. From a boat tour or an observation tower you may spot some of these endangered creatures, sometimes known as sea cows, feeding in their protected waters.

You can fly direct to Trang Airport (TST) from Bangkok, or take a train down the only offshoot of the Southern Line that accesses the Thai southwest.

This scenic and historic town on the River Kwai (pronounced kway), along with the province of the same name, offers families a chance to learn Second World War history between visits to some of Thailand's most impressive waterfalls.

A host of museums in the provincial capital cover the history of the Thai-Burma Railway and the roughly 100,000 Allied prisoners and forced labourers who died during its construction overseen by the Japanese Army in 1942-43. One highlight is the rail bridge that inspired the 1957 film, The Bridge on the River Kwai. Visitors can ride on part of the railway built atop trellises high above the river.

Kanchanaburi's most riveting Second World War site is Hellfire Pass, a memorial where you can hike a portion of a now-closed stretch of railway that was extremely gruelling for the malnourished workers to build. It’s just 80km north of the provincial capital and you can visit with a tour, or independently.

This sobering history is balanced by fabulous natural attractions, including the popular Erawan waterfall and the more remote Huai Mae Khamin waterfall. Bring swimsuits. If you have more time, consider venturing to the misty lakeside town of Sangkhlaburi or the border outpost of Pilok, both in the Tenassarim Mountains near Myanmar.

Kanchanaburi is only 130km west of Bangkok, making it convenient for a short trip. But as the third largest province in the country, it's also worth considering for a longer stay.

Most of Kanchanaburi town is family friendly, but you may want to avoid staying in the nightlife area at the south end of Mae Nam Kwai Road. For a more kid-friendly setting, stay towards the north end of this road or on the west side of the river. The nearby countryside also has quality resorts set in quieter areas along the River Kwai.

Founded in the 12th century, Sukhothai (Dawning Lotus) was the first Thai kingdom to conquer most of the land within modern Thailand's borders. Guided by leaders like Ramkamhaeng, now a revered figure, this was the kingdom where the Thai script was created and where a distinctive Thai culture first emerged.

Sukhothai's three zones can be explored in a day. One key site is the former royal temple Wat Mahathat, with its lotus-shaped chedi spires and exquisite carvings. Another is a seated 11-metre wide Buddha image at nearby Wat Si Chum which is hidden by a brick enclosure accessed via a narrow passageway, which makes for a dramatic approach.

A third is the meditation monastery at Wat Saphan Hin set on a wooded hill, to which King Ramkamhaeng once rode on a white elephant. The atmosphere is serene even today.

Kamphaeng Phet's ruins are less extensive than those of Sukhothai, but the reclining Buddha image at Wat Phra Kaeo and dozens of 14th century elephant statues at Wat Chang Rob are no less captivating. Away from the historical sites, Kamphaeng Phet's riverfront makes for a relaxing sunset stroll followed by a search for tasty Thai treats in the night market.

Compact layouts and plentiful tree cover make the historical parks in Sukhothai and Kamphaeng Phet great for bicycles, which can be rented. If your family has a keen interest in history, consider another historical park, Si Satchanalai, set in a rural area 50km north of Sukhothai.

Thailand's northernmost province is often overlooked by travellers assuming that Chiang Mai is the must-visit destination up north. Both are worth a visit, but Chiang Rai is hard to beat for vistas of layered mountains and one of Asia's grandest rivers, the Mekong.

Start with three of Thailand's most imaginative structures: Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Wat Rang Suea Ten (Blue Temple) and Baan Dum (Black House). Designed by two Thai artists, they feature creative interpretations of the country’s spiritual themes in art and architecture.

Then there are great options in the countryside. Soak up Mekong River views in relaxing Chiang Khong; observe 700-year-old ruins in Chiang Saen, an early capital of the Lanna kingdom that predates Chiang Mai; gaze at the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar in an area that was once notorious for drug smuggling.

When you're ready to hit the mountains, enjoy the temperate flower gardens and tea farms perched at 1,100 to 1,700 metres at Phu Chee Fah, Doi Tung, and Mae Salong. It gets chilly up there so pack semi-warm clothes.

For travellers with older kids, there are several tour outfits offering jungle trekking to villages that are home to hill tribes, such as the Lahu. For a real adventure, take a bus to Tha Ton in northern Chiang Mai province and then catch a longtail boat down the Kok River to Chiang Rai.

Prachuap Khiri Khan, Prachuap for short, separates Bangkok to the north and the islands and beaches to the south, making it perfect for lazy road trips following the coastline in either direction.

The most popular tourist destination is Hua Hin, a well developed city with plenty of family-friendly resorts overlooking miles of beaches. The centre is cramped and noisy, but the southern part of town is a relaxing base for attractions such as the Black Mountain Water Park and Wat Khao Takiab, the Chopsticks Hill Temple, where you can meet monkeys and enjoy the sea views. Hua Hin is also a golfing centre and tour companies offer club rental and transport to any one of 10 courses, some very scenic.

Further south, Pranburi is a more laid-back seaside city with a mangrove-forest walkway and some of the best wind and kite-surfing in Thailand. It's also close to Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park with quiet beaches, magnificent limestone caves and a wetland rich in birdlife.

Prachuap town is a kid-friendly destination in its own right. It has a monkey-filled hilltop temple at Khao Chong Krachok, a family-oriented beach at Ao Manao, and a seafront walkway where fishers offload their catch. And within striking distance are the refreshing Huai Yang waterfall and the Kui Buri National Park, the best place in Thailand to spot elephants in the wild.

Note for all travellers, but especially those with kids, road safety in Thailand leaves a lot to be desired and a high degree of caution is advised.

Loei province in Thailand's northeast draws a fraction of the visitors of the more popular destinations to the south. This makes it a thrilling place to visit with older (and more adventurous) kids.

Chiang Khan's historic temples, heritage houses, trendy cafes and Thai massage shops make it fun for a day of strolling or cycling. In the late afternoon enjoy the lengthy walkway along the Mekong and watch fishers casting out their nets before puttering home on longtail boats as the sun sinks behind the fluffy green hills. It is enchanting.

Near Chiang Khan is a mountain, Phu Tok, from which you have views of the Mekong - and there's no need to hike thanks to the songthaews that can truck you to the viewpoint. A glass-floor skywalk set over the confluence of the Mekong and Hueang rivers is a thrill.

Further west, Phu Ruea National Park has waterfalls accessible via a road that winds up to a 1,365-metre summit with tremendous views. In the south of the province, climb to the 1,316-metre plateau at Phu Kradueng if you’re fit enough. There’s a campground there where temperatures can drop close to freezing at night. Alternatively, head to Suan Pha Hin Ngam for a tractor ride between vertical karst cliffs.

Buses access some parts of Loei province, but renting a car in one of the larger provinces nearby, such as Khon Kaen or Udon Thani, would make it easier to explore the countryside. Loei also fits nicely into a wider tour of the Northeast that might include Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom and other provinces along the Mekong.

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5 best destinations in thailand for family – full guide 2024.

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Thailand is one of the best countries in the world for family travel. So what are the best destinations in Thailand for family travel in 2024? 

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand with your kids, you may be trying to work out the best family-friendly destinations in Thailand. Choosing the right destinations is the first step in planning any epic travel itinerary. If you’re planning to travel with kids, you need to get it right – especially if you are investing a lot in a once-in-a-lifetime family trip.

Traveling to a new country is both exciting and challenging, especially if you are bringing kids along for the ride. Picking the right destination can be the difference between a dream family holiday and a family holiday flop. And Thailand really does have such an impressive variety of destinations – it’s hard to know where to start! 

We have lived in Thailand with our kids and traveled the country extensively. We absolutely love Thailand for family travel; it really does have a lot to offer. In this article, we’re going to reveal the absolute best destinations in Thailand for travel with kids. So that this article is helpful to as many people as possible, we have selected a range of destinations for different trip types and different families. Please read this article carefully, because we really do have a lot of top tips and experience to share. Hopefully, this article will be your first step in planning a dream family holiday to Thailand.

Summary – Best Destinations in Thailand for Family

Why is Thailand a Good Destination for Family Travel?

Thailand is one of the best countries in the world for family travel. It is beautiful, affordable, and packed with natural beauty and adventure. There are loads of amazing things to do for families, and some amazing destinations. Here are a few reasons that Thailand is so good for family travel:

• Low prices – Many things in Thailand are delightfully cheap (including accommodation, food, and transportation).
• Plenty of kid-friendly food – Although Thailand has a reputation for super spicy curries, you can also find plenty of kid-friendly food around. It is very easy to find bread, snacks, sticky rice, fruit, coconuts, fish, chicken, and non-spicy noodle dishes.
• Family-friendly accommodation – Thailand has an abundance of affordable, family-friendly accommodation with excellent facilities and amenities for families, and plenty of family rooms and suites.
• Plenty of convenience stores – Thailand is the land of 7-Elevens. You can almost find a 7-Eleven on every street corner. In Thailand, 7-Elevens are very well-stocked with everything you need for kids, including small travel-size nappy packs, snacks, drinks, and even toys.
• Lots of swimming pools – According to my 4-year-old, one of his favorite things about Thailand is the number of swimming pools. Almost every hotel and guest house has an outdoor swimming pool, so if your family loves to take a splash, you will love Thailand.
• Warm, welcoming culture – Thai people have a reputation for being warm and welcoming. This is particularly true for families. We have found local Thai people to be remarkably friendly, welcoming, and hospitable with our children.

Work out Your Goals and Priorities

So what are the best Destinations in Thailand for Family? Before you commit to a specific destination in Thailand, it is worth working out your goals and priorities. Are you looking for a relaxing beach holiday? Are you interested in embracing street food and culture? Or are you looking for an adventurous trip with active teenagers? In this article, we will suggest a range of destinations so that you can find the perfect place for your family. We also recommend that you consider specific activities or attractions.

Consider the experiences that you and your kids dream about. Have you always hoped to visit an elephant sanctuary? Are you interested in seeing some intrepid jungle waterfalls? Would you like to learn to dive or freedive? What about trekking to see hill tribes? Thailand really does have so much to offer. Start with the experiences that you dream about and work backwards. For each of the destinations that we share in this article, we will also share some of the best things to do in the area.

What is it Like to Travel Around Thailand with Kids?

When it comes to travel in Thailand, you really are spoiled for choice. Thailand has so many epic destinations to choose from. You may want to visit everywhere. Ultimately, you will need to balance your trip and pick a suitable pace for your family. For example, if you have two weeks in Thailand, you don’t want to lose more than a day or two to transit around the country. Not only is it more expensive to transit around the country, you will also lose travel time, and it can be particularly tiring doing a lot of travel with kids. If you have two weeks in Thailand, we recommend picking one or two destinations for your trip (in our opinion, trying to see more destinations than this would detract from your experience and be tiring).

Travel between destinations in Thailand is relatively cheap and easy. If you’re traveling on a low budget, we highly recommend the night train. Not only is this a fun and unique experience, it is also relatively affordable. Taking a night train also saves the cost of one night’s accommodation in a hotel (because you sleep on the train – they have beds and private cabins available). Taking a night train also saves precious travel time in Thailand (completing your journey in night hours rather than daytime). If the night train is not for you, you can also take relatively affordable domestic flights around Thailand; watch out for cheap flights on budget airlines like Scoot and AirAsia.

Here are the BEST Destinations in Thailand for Family Travel…

Here is a picture of Black Rock viewpoint at the south tip of Phuket. Even though Phuket is popular you can still get off-the-beaten-track and find tranquil beauty spots like this…

FIND A PLACE TO STAY Don’t miss some of these Amazing Phuket Hotels with Private Swimming Pools

Phuket is a very popular and iconic destination in Thailand. There are so many great things to do in Phuket with kids . This is one of the safer options for families. Phuket is relatively developed; it has plenty of shopping malls, coffee shops, western food restaurants, and family-friendly activities (this includes water parks and indoor play spaces ). There is also a lot of great family-friendly accommodation here across the full budget range. In our opinion, Phuket is a great option if you are traveling with younger kids. It is also a fantastic option if this is your first visit to Thailand (or to Asia). Phuket is one of the best destinations in Thailand for a luxury family holiday.

There are some amazing luxurious family-friendly resorts in Phuket (especially in the northwest of the island). If you are a nature-loving family, there are also some beautiful waterfalls , fantastic trekking, and you can visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. We also highly recommend a visit to the Big Buddha statue ; from here, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the south of the island. Phuket is also a great destination for a beach holiday. There are plenty of family friendly beaches to choose from; each beach has its own vibe and advantages. We are particularly fond of Kata Bay; this is a great spot for surfing, snorkeling, and sea kayaking. We also love the Nai Han beach area (this is a particularly popular destination for families and it has a lovely chilled-out vibe).

If you’re looking for a quieter and more remote beach, then check out Freedom Beach or Banana Beach. If you are looking for something adventurous, you can also take an island-hopping trip to Phang Nga Bay and visit the iconic James Bond Island. Phuket is also great for surfing and snorkeling (depending on the season). If you’re looking for some culture and street food, don’t miss Phuket Town (in our opinion, Phuket Town is massively underrated).

As a popular destination, Phuket is also a great place to meet other families and travelers; it has a sociable, good vibe and there is plenty of nightlife (especially around Patong Beach). Phuket is also a great destination if you are hoping to visit Krabi or the Khao Sok National Park. As a relatively popular hub, Phuket is easy to travel to and from; it has a relatively large airport (domestic flights and international flights from the airport).

Be aware that there are some risks in the water around here; there is a risk of jellyfish encounters throughout the year, and the waves can also be very strong, especially along the west coast. Watch out for strong ocean currents. If your family loves to swim, then we recommend booking a hotel or guest house with a swimming pool (many places to stay have an outdoor swimming pool). Hopefully you can now see why we think Phuket is one of the best destinations in Thailand for Family holidays.

2 Koh Phangan

Looking for a splash of paradise, check out Bottle Beach. This lovely beach swing is situated on Bottle beach. A trip to Bottle Beach is a great adventure with kids….

FIND A PLACE TO STAY Don’t miss these Amazing Luxury Resorts in Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan is one of our favorite destinations for family travel (not just in Thailand but anywhere in the world). We love this island so much we can’t stop going back. Koh Phangan is best known for its full moon beach parties. So you may suspect that this is not the best destination for families. However, Koh Phangan is an absolute hidden gem in the world of family travel.

As a small and beautiful island, Koh Phangan has stunning scenery, beautiful beaches , amazing food, and lots of things to see and do. Koh Phangan is not as developed as Phuket. However, you can still get lots of things on the island; there are several big supermarkets and plenty of 7-Eleven convenience stores. You can buy everything you need (including snacks, drinks, toys, nappies, baby wipes, baby milk, and much more). There are a lot of excellent attractions for families in Koh Phangan . On this island, you can see wild monkeys and visit an elephant sanctuary.

If you’re traveling with younger kids, there are several play spaces around the island (don’t miss the play spaces at Big C and Messy House close to the pier in Thong Sala). We also love the weekly Night Market. On Saturday night, you can go to the night market in the main town (Thong Sala), and on Sunday night, you can go to the Night Market on the pier in Chaloklum (which is situated on the north coast of the island). There is plenty of fresh, tasty, affordable, kid-friendly food in the Night Market, and you can even do kid-friendly activities such as painting sculptures.

Koh Phangan is a relatively popular destination and it is very easy to meet other families (although it is worth pointing out that Koh Phangan is not as popular or busy as Phuket). If you are an adventurous family, we highly recommend trekking to Bottle Beach (if jungle trekking is not your thing, you can also take a taxi boat).

There are also a couple of epic waterfalls on the island: Phaeng Noi Waterfall and Paradise Waterfall. Koh Phangan also has plenty of epic restaurants; you can find lots of delicious, affordable local food and plenty of international cafes and restaurants in Koh Phangan . It is very easy to find kid-friendly food around. Koh Phangan can be a little bit expensive and awkward to travel around; there are not any buses, and the Grab taxi app does not work in Koh Phangan. Don’t miss our guide to getting around in Koh Phangan .

Therefore, you will need to rely on Songthaews (taxi buses); these are relatively expensive. Alternatively, consider car rental on the island. You can find deals starting at around 600 baht per day (roughly £12 or $15). Unfortunately, there are a lot of very dangerous jellyfish in the waters around Koh Phangan. You can have a jellyfish encounter at any time of year, and there are several fatalities a year in the waters around Koh Phangan. If your family loves to swim, make sure that you book a hotel with a swimming pool. Koh Phangan is also slightly tricky to reach.

The nearest international airport is situated on Koh Samui (a neighboring island). If you’re traveling from Bangkok, you will need to take a night train and then take a boat from Surat Thani to Koh Phangan. This can be a challenging and tiring journey, especially if you are traveling with young kids. Koh Phangan is a great destination for diving and freediving. It is also relatively easy to travel to Koh Samui or Koh Tao. In our opinion Koh Phangan is one of the most under-rated destinations in Thailand for Family travel!

Take a taxi boat to Railay beach – this is a spectacular ride for kids and they use the iconic longtail boats as a standard so you can get your classic Thailand family travel pics!

FIND A PLACE TO STAY Don’t miss The BEST Family Hotels in Krabi

BEFORE YOU READ ON – Krabi is both a town and an entire province. We recommend staying in the Ao Nang area (close to Krabi town). Find out more about the best areas to stay in Krabi .

If you’re looking for a combination of beautiful beaches , stunning scenery, and amazing activities, we highly recommend Krabi. This beautiful town is situated on the southeast coast of Thailand. As a destination, Krabi combines many of the advantages of North and South Thailand in one location. South Thailand has a reputation for beautiful beaches; Krabi has stunning beaches surrounded by dramatic, steep limestone cliffs. The north of Thailand is well known for jungle wildlife, natural beauty, waterfalls, and trekking. Krabi also has all of these things. So, if you’re planning a family holiday to Thailand and you want to tick all of the boxes, Krabi really does have a lot to offer.

Here are some of the best things to do in the area. Make sure that you take a taxi boat to the Railay Beach area . The taxi boats are the iconic long-tail boats (so you can get that awesome Thailand family holiday photo). This is a very beautiful beach area to explore. Princess Cave is a particularly nice spot for families. If you’re traveling with active and adventurous teenagers, you can go rock climbing in the area, and you can also take an intrepid jungle trek to a hidden lagoon near Railay Beach.

You can also take an island-hopping trip in Krabi . This is great for kids of all ages. If you are looking for an adventure, then we highly recommend a visit to Tiger Cave Temple (a challenging steep up hill trek), the Emerald Lagoon , and the Krabi Hotspring . You can also find some stunning places to go kayaking around Krabi . If you’re visiting Krabi with kids, don’t miss the epic Jungle Treehouse Cafe (this is very unique and a lot of fun). There is also an elephant sanctuary in the area. Krabi is a popular tourist destination. There is plenty of family-friendly food around. As ever, there are also plenty of convenience stores around.

You can also find a lot of family-friendly accommodation in Krabi . (Although if you are looking for luxury resorts with amazing family-friendly facilities, we recommend Phuket over Krabi.) There really is a lot to love about Krabi. However, there are a few disadvantages to this area. Krabi is a very popular tourist destination. It is busy throughout the year and can feel overcrowded.

What’s more, the popularity of Krabi results in higher prices and a less authentic local experience. It is hard to find authentic local food in the area (most of the local food in Krabi is overpriced and is made for a Western palate). Overall, Krabi is very beautiful with lots of things to see and do . However, it is overcrowded and overpriced compared to other areas of Thailand. Krabi is a great destination to visit Khao Sok National Park, Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta. You can also travel to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao in a day.

Exploring temples in Bangkok is a great activity for families….

FIND A PLACE TO STAY Don’t miss these Fantastic Family Hotels in Bangkok

Almost everyone who visits Thailand spends at least some time in Bangkok. Generally speaking, it is cheapest to fly into Bangkok (compared to other destinations around Thailand). What’s more, Bangkok is an excellent hub for connecting to other destinations around Thailand. You can take cheap domestic flights, or you can take buses and night trains from Bangkok. Bangkok is a large city. It has plenty of shopping malls and an excellent infrastructure with an extensive subway system.

There are also lots of great activities and attractions for families in Bangkok. Bangkok is particularly good if you want to explore markets, visit temples, and connect with the culture. Here are a few of our top pick activities for families in Bangkok: Wat Saket (beautiful temple with a great viewpoint), the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market , The Children’s Discovery Museum (there’s a lot to see and do here, and entry is free), and the Kidzoona Indoor play space . If you’re looking for shopping and malls, don’t miss the Sukhumvit district. If you’re looking for culture and street food, we highly recommend Chinatown Bangkok .

Although we recommend spending a few days in Bangkok, we do not recommend spending your entire trip there. Thailand has so many epic destinations, unique experiences, natural beauty, and adventure. If you’re just arriving in Thailand, we recommend planning an open-ended day where you can rest, get your bearings, and set yourself up for your trip. For example, you may need to pick up a local SIM card (Mobile data is very affordable and fast in Thailand).

However, there are some challenges of exploring Bangkok with kids. Ultimately, Bangkok is a big city, and big cities are not a great environment for younger children. There are a lot of roads, a lot of grime, and it is not safe for kids to run around and explore. Bangkok does have a few inner-city parks. So if you are desperate for a green space, you can find some places for kids to burn off some beans. In recent years, accommodation in Bangkok has become relatively expensive.

It is tricky to find places that can accommodate larger families, especially if you’re traveling on a low budget. Don’t miss our full guide to the best Family Hotels in Bangkok . We recommend looking around the Chinatown area and the Khaosan Road area (which no longer has the vibrant Backpacker vibes it used to). Alternatively, consider one of the suburbs like Pinklao. As a general rule, you will need to be more open-minded and flexible about your exact destination if you are traveling on a tight budget.

Top tip: In Bangkok, you can use the Grab taxi app or the Bolt taxi app to order taxis online. This can be a very affordable, fast, and convenient way to travel around Bangkok. However, some areas of Bangkok get very congested, especially around rush hour. If you’re traveling a long distance across the city at rush hour, we recommend using the metro system.

5 Chiang Mai

Here is a picture of Sticky Waterfall. Our kids LOVED climbing this waterfall…

FIND A PLACE TO STAY If you’re visiting Chiang Mai with kids – you will love these Awesome Family Hotels in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of the best destinations in Thailand for family travel. You could easily spend two weeks in Chiang Mai and struggle to fit everything into your itinerary. Chiang Mai is particularly good for families with older kids (although there is also a lot for younger kids too). Chiang Mai is a relatively big city, and it is well-developed. It has plenty of supermarkets, convenience stores, and a few shopping malls. On average, Chiang Mai is also cheaper than the south of Thailand. It is very easy to travel around the city. There are plenty of very affordable Songthaew taxi buses. You can easily travel around the city for 20 – 30 baht (although drivers may try to charge more). You can also use the Grab and the Bolt taxi apps in Chiang Mai.

If you are visiting Thailand with active, adventurous teenagers, Chiang Mai has a lot to offer. In the area, you can visit jungle temples , waterfalls, and elephant sanctuaries. You can do white water rafting and trekking. Don’t miss the Grand Canyon Water Park (this is particularly good for older and more active kids). We also highly recommend a visit to the Pong Yang Adventure Park. It has an aerial obstacle course and a jungle roller coaster.

Sticky Waterfall is also a super fun and totally unique attraction. You can actually walk up very steep sections of this waterfall due to the high friction. We particularly loved visiting Sticky Waterfall with our kids. Chiang Mai also has plenty of amazing food to enjoy. We particularly recommend North Thailand barbecue food for kids. Make sure that you take some time to explore the small streets of the Chiang Mai old city. There are plenty of amazing coffee shops and hidden gems around town. Don’t miss the amazing night markets. Chiang Mai really is one of THE BEST destinations in Thailand for Family Travel!

You could also consider a trip to the Doi Inthanon National Park with the famous Royal Twin Pagodas (these are the iconic Chiang Mai temples on the mountain). Actually this is pretty tricky to organize – so you may just want to book a tour for Doi Inthanon .

And you can even stay in a mountain nature lodge where you can even get a wake-up call from elephants and share breakfast with them! (You can book This Elephant Lodge on Agoda ) Chiang Mai really does have everything for a dream family holiday. If you have time, you could also spend a few days in Pai (This is a very beautiful and peaceful town known for its waterfalls, hot springs, and night market).

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Visiting Thailand with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide

Planning a family-friendly vacation that has something for everyone is often easier said than done, especially if you have young children. You want to strike the right balance between  fun ,  relaxation , and  cultural experiences , but that can often be a tall order. But what if there were a place that checked all the boxes on your vacation checklist? Whether your goal is to relax on a pristine beach, explore temples and delve into a new culture, or try snorkeling, kayaking, or visiting an elephant sanctuary, a family vacation to Thailand has something for everyone.

If you’ve always wanted to journey to Thailand but were curious if a Thailand vacation could be family-friendly, here’s your sign that Thailand is the perfect destination for families of all ages. With so many ways to  explore nature  and Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, a vacation to Thailand is one your family will remember for a lifetime.

Here are just a few fun activities to show you just how family-friendly Thailand is!

Family-Friendly Beaches

Thailand has  no shortage of beaches , with different beaches to suit different needs. While some are decidedly quieter and others are known for their party vibe, Thailand has its fair share of family-friendly beaches to choose from as well.

Klong Chao Beach, Ko Kood (Ko Kut)

Klong Chao Beach in Ko Kood is nestled  in a resort town  that is decidedly child friendly. Located in Trat, the easternmost province in Thailand, Ko Kood sits on the Gulf of Thailand. The town itself hosts many family-friendly resorts with beach access and pools, as well as lots of little shops and restaurants to explore. Klong Chao also boasts a safe, gradual decline into the water, so beach revelers can safely explore the beach without fear of a deep drop into the ocean.

Furthermore, because most of inland Ko Kood is packed with dense rainforest, there are many inland activities for families, including a visit to the famous Klong Chao Waterfall, which is perfect for taking a refreshing dip!

Wong Duean Bay, Ko Samet

Wong Duean Beach is a crescent-shaped beach, making the waters much safer for small children to splash in and play on the pure khaki sand.

Wong Duean is home to many family-friendly resorts but is also known for its proximity to nightlife, so there’s truly something for everyone. Wong Duean Beach’s central location also makes it an excellent spot for beach hoppers looking to explore some other amazing beaches in  Ko Samet .

Tha Khao Beach, Ko Yao Noi

If adventure is on the agenda for your Thailand vacation, a trip to Tha Khao Beach in Ko Yao Noi is an absolute must. Ko Yao Noi is located in the Phang Nga province – a short distance from Phuket. Tha Khao Beach presents visitors at high tide with crystal clear water and golden sandy beaches. At low tide, a magical world of wildlife is revealed, with crabs darting through the sand, perfect for entertaining the nature-loving family.

Tha Khao Beach is also near a functioning fishing village, where families can see fishermen and vibrant buildings dotting the landscape. Finally, the impeccable view of the Hong Islands from the beach is a sight for revelers of any age.

Family-Friendly Cultural Experiences

There are many fun things to do and see in Thailand that children will love. For older children, a visit to a Buddhist temple provides not just a fantastic look at some breathtaking architecture but a lesson in the history of the Thai people. Some of the most family-friendly temples of Thailand leave plenty of room to satiate the curiosity of anyone of any age.

Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai

Also known as the White Temple, the famous Wat Rong Khun in  Chiang Rai  is a marvel of architectural design and a lesson in Thai history. The temple, rebuilt in 1997, is now considered an art exhibit for revelers to come and photograph. 

Hidden within the temple’s main hall, artist Chalermchai Kositpipat has dreamt up elaborately unconventional murals, primarily focused on Western pop cultural references. Flames and the face of a giant demon whose mouth makes the doorway is then paired with Hello Kitty, Elvis, Harry Potter, a few Pokémon, Spider-Man, Iron Man, a Transformer, Neo from  The Matrix , Superman, Captain Jack Sparrow, and even Michael Jackson.

 The temple is open to the public, but donations are accepted.

Khao Sok National Park

At Khao Sok National Park, you can experience everything from one of Asia’s oldest rainforests to  Rajjaprabha Dam (Chiao Lan Dam) , a stunning reservoir home to deep green waters, cascading waterfalls, and unique flora, including the Rafflesia kerrii, one of the most giant flowers on earth. Known as the dinosaur flower, the Rafflesia kerrii is a deep scarlet red. But don’t get too close, as it’s also known for its less-than-perfumey smell!

Khao Sok National Park  is a veritable paradise for hikers, swimmers, and kayakers.

Khao Sok National Park also offers lodging for those looking to stay a while, with camping as well as bungalows, which come with a kayak for use during your stay. Tour packages are also available for the park.

Sukhothai is home to the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Park containing ruins and carvings. The park can be seen in about two days and is perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring.

The park covers an area of over 70 square kilometers and contains the ruins of many important temples, palaces, and monuments that date back to the 13th century. Visitors to the park can witness the grandeur of ancient Thai architecture and learn about the cultural and historical significance of the Sukhothai kingdom. 

The park also offers a peaceful and beautiful environment for visitors to relax, with lush green gardens, serene ponds, and stunning Buddhist monuments scattered throughout the grounds. Overall, Sukhothai Historical Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Thailand’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Ayutthaya  is another historically significant area of Thailand. There are many ruins to explore and rivers where you can take a longtail boat ride or hop on a frog-shaped tuk-tuk. Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage park with ruins of Thailand’s former capital.

Ayutthaya also boasts an impressive museum, The Million Toy Museum, which will surely be a hit with children and children at heart. The museum contains modern and antique toys and features a beautiful garden and quaint cafe for visitors to enjoy while on the premises.

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

For those fascinated by these stunning pachyderms, the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is an  ethical elephant sanctuary  that houses elderly and injured elephants. Visitors are welcome to stop by and view these magnificent animals by traversing a 600-meter-long walkway that takes visitors above the refuge.

For those looking to get on the ground, there are also guided tours of the expansive 30-acre park, which allow for some spectacular views of the elephants.

Cooking Lessons

There’s no denying that Thai food is  some of the best cuisines  in the world. Thai recipes are not usually complicated to make but often require special techniques that the masters best teach. Many classes even offer to take students to the market or through a garden to collect and learn about various ingredients that will go into a dish.

Cooking lessons in Thailand are fun for the whole family. Many instructors speak English, making the classes more accessible to children. 

Courageous Cooking ,  Sompong Thai Cooking Schoo ,    and Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant  are three highly recommended cooking schools in Bangkok.

Family-Friendly Cities

The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok, is a very family-friendly city if you know the right places to go.

Bangkok is home to many day and night markets, where artisans peddle wares such as jewelry, clothing, ornate silk fabrics, and souvenirs. They also have ample Thai street food for tasting to introduce your family’s palate to new cuisine. Vendors can customize any dish to suit any level of spice tolerance.

Bangkok  is also home to  Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World , the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia. Housed in the Siam Paragon Mall basement, the aquarium joins such fun excursions as Dream World, a famous waterpark, and the Children’s Discovery Museum.

Phuket has roughly 30 beaches to choose from and is a great family-friendly spot. Here, you can find inclusive resorts with beach access and pools. Phuket is also home to water parks, zip lining, watersports, go-karting, museums, and mini golf.

Temples, hiking, biking, and more are also available for the adventurous family, as is terrific cuisine.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking backdrop to family fun,  Phuket is a must-see  on your family’s Thailand vacation.

Chiang Mai , Thailand, is a vibrant and culturally rich city, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most popular things to do in Chiang Mai include visiting the historic city walls and moat, exploring the famous night markets, and taking cooking classes to learn about Thai cuisine. 

For those interested in Thai culture and history, visiting the ancient temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang is a must. Adventure seekers can enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking through the city’s lush forests, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and rafting down the Mae Taeng River. 

Shopping is also a popular pastime in Chiang Mai, with street markets, boutiques, and artisan shops selling handmade crafts, textiles, and jewelry. Visitors can enjoy live music, street performances, and traditional dance shows at night. 

With so much to see and do, Chiang Mai is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience Thailand’s unique culture and natural beauty.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi, Thailand , offers a variety of activities for families with kids. The famous Death Railway and the Bridge Over the River Kwai are must-see historical landmarks. 

The Erawan National Park is an excellent choice for a day trip with its seven-tiered waterfall and scenic hiking trails. The Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum is another popular attraction where visitors can learn about the experiences of Allied prisoners of war during World War II. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits at the JEATH War Museum and the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. 

For a more laid-back experience, families can take a boat ride along the river to watch fireflies, visit the Kanchanaburi Night Market, or relax at one of the many resorts or hot springs in the area. Kanachanaburi is the perfect stop on your family-friendly Thailand vacation!

The Vacation of a Lifetime

Whether you’re looking to relax, learn more about Thai culture, climb a mountain, explore a cave, fly through the sky on a zip line, or meet some new elephant friends, Thailand truly has something to enthrall everyone in the family.

With a bit of research and planning, you’ll find there are many activities to make a family-friendly Thailand vacation; visiting the Land of Smiles is a trip that your clan will never forget!

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Thailand Family Adventure

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• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Explore Bangkok's klongs by longboat
• Visit the historic Bridge over the River Kwai
• Join a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai

“The tour has been so good for my family this is the first time we have been travelling for years and G advantures is the most special experience of all time.”

• Tour Bangkok's historic Rattanakosin Island
• Explore Pattaya with a stay at A-One Royal Cruise
• Enjoy a cabaret show at Alcazar, Pattaya

• Visit the intricate Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya
• Enjoy a dinner cruise on Bangkok's Chao Phraya River
• Relax on the white sands of Koh Larn Coral Island

• Explore the Kwai on a bamboo raft and see the bridge
• Kayak through one of the oldest jungles in Southeast Asia
• See coconut plantations and palm-fringed beaches

“The activities on the River Kwai were great especially rafting down the Kwai with the kids jumping off the rafts into the river.”

• Enjoy the peaceful and relaxing vibe of Phuket beach
• Learn how to take care of elephants in the elephant sanctuary
• Explore the must-see and stunning temples in Bangkok

“Communication was clear and easy. The guides and excursions were fabulous.”

• Enjoy a picnic on the sandy Poda Island
• Snorkel around the stunning Phi Phi Islands
• Discover Krabi's night market and riverfront

“Our accommodations during the trip were very good, especially the Avista Grande hotel with its very friendly staff and excellent service.”

• Get up close and bathe baby elephants
• Fall in love with the natural beauty of Thai mountains
• Indulge in traditional Thai cuisine with the locals

“Fabulous- a real adventure with lots of interesting activities.”

• Interact with elephants and raft in Chiang Mai
• Explore Bangkok's iconic temples and palaces
• Experience a traditional Thai floating market

“Hotels were nice, clean, and conveniently located. Great value for money.”

• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phuket
• Explore Bangkok's iconic temples
• Snorkel in the clear waters of Phi Phi

“This was a nice tour that encompassed many things that Thailand had to offer. The accommodations were clean, and the guides were friendly and knowledgeable.”

• Relax and take a dip under stunning waterfalls
• Experience the thrill of driving your own Tuk Tuk

“Driving the Tuk Tuks was a highlight and a wonderfully novel way to travel through the beautiful countryside.”

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7 Days in Thailand Itinerary with (2024) - An Easy Family Itinerary for 1st Time Visitors

I travelled to thailand with my parents a few years ago. we were looking to get a taste of thailand and spent 7 days in thailand being tourists, visiting the most popular spots as this was the first time we saw an international destination as a family. this 7 days in thailand itinerary will help you get the most of your family holiday if it’s your first time here can be used as a 5 day thailand itinerary too..

I visited Thailand with my parents, and I wanted to make sure our first time in Thailand was about introducing them to a culture that was different from theirs yet similar in many ways was the ideal way to ensure they didn’t experience culture shock.

I was keen to put together an itinerary that was bespoke to our needs and is perfect for people visiting an international destination for the first time, especially for ones with kids and parents above a certain age.

This itinerary shares details of our seven days in Thailand (not including the days we flew in and out of the country).

During this time, we visited Bangkok, Kanchanaburi and Phuket (including Phi-Phi and James Bond Island). We loved how fascinating this James Bond Twilight Sea Canoe and Glowing Plankton tour from Phuket proved to be!

I hope this family itinerary for Thailand for 7 days helps you plan your ideal one-week getaway to Thailand.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP | THE ESSENTIALS

Top-rated tours in thailand:.

• Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market
• Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch
• Maya, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch from Phuket

Best hotels in Thailand:

• Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok
• U Inchantree Kanchanaburi
• The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa in Phuket

IN THIS GUIDE

7 days in Thailand Itinerary

A family itinerary for thailand.

HOW TO GET TO BANGKOK

Most international airlines fly to or via Bangkok. The Suvarnabhumi airport (which in Hindi translates to ‘Land of gold’, but Thailand is called the ‘Land of smiles’) is the central hub and one of the busiest in Asia, so getting flights to Bangkok shouldn’t be an issue.

Bangkok city is located about 30 minutes (32 kilometres) away. However, keep in mind that traffic in Bangkok is unpredictable, and you may be stuck in traffic for a while, especially during the evenings.

Thai Airways , the flag carrier of Thailand, has one of the best services I’ve experienced, and Thai Smile is their budget-friendly option for travel within the country or to neighbouring destinations.

It’s worth spending at least 2 days in Bangkok; however, we spent 3 days in Bangkok as getting some rest and starting with a new day was much needed.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THAILAND

The best time to visit Thailand is during winter, which is between November to April, when most of the country experiences dry spells and temperatures are pleasant.

However, since the country is big, there can be spells of rain and depending on where you’re planning to visit, the weather can vary.

DAY 1 – Bangkok

Spend three days in bangkok on your 7 days in thailand itinerary.

Bangkok might remind many Indians of Mumbai with its bustling city life speckled with traditions and culture. The traffic might be a stark reminder too!

Once refreshed, the first spot anybody should visit on arrival in Bangkok is the  Grand Palace,  where the Royal family of Thailand resides   and the nearby complex of  Wat Pho,  which houses Thailand’s most extensive collection of images and statues of Buddha.

Visiting the palace grounds and the many open temples in the early morning when the crowds are sparse while admiring the architecture is fantastic.

Next, take a stroll across the street towards the  Wat Pho  complex to admire the reclining Buddha’s famous statue and the surrounding temple grounds.

End your first morning, enjoying heavenly views of Bangkok city, from the top of the  Wat Arun  Temple, situated by the Chao Phraya river. If you get here just before sunrise, the setting is picture-perfect from the opposite side of the river.

Spend the afternoon riding up and down from the central pier point on the  Chao Phraya  river in a water taxi.

Not is it relaxing and inexpensive, but you get a good description of the important sites as you pass them. Spend the evening on  Khao San  road, the 24×7 activity hub of the city.

DAY 2 – Bangkok

Start your day with a mix of relaxation, culture and adventure! Head out as early as possible to the famous Khlong Lat Mayom  floating market in Taling Chan, about 10 km east of downtown Bangkok.

Eating here is easily the highlight of your visit to Bangkok, as visitors can order dishes like boat noodles and oyster omelette cooked fresh on a tiny wooden boat stationed besides your table.

You could also head off on a boat tour yourself and order while on it, then continue enjoying your meal as your guide takes you around explaining the floating market’s history and culture and why it is an essential livelihood for the people here.

Other things sold at the floating market in addition to fresh vegetables, food and fruits are fresh flowers, home decor, toys and clothing.

Exploring the floating markets takes about three-quarters of your day, so once done, head to your hotel to get some rest before heading out to grab dinner.

Bangkok is also well-known for its party scene so even if you aren’t looking to dance the night away at a club, look for a place with good views like the  Vertigo and Moon Bar  to sip on some excellent cocktails while enjoying an incredible unobstructed 360-degree view of the city.

DAY 3 – Bangkok

In the earlier days, the Grand Palace area used to be where Chinese traders usually traded; they then moved to Yaowarat Road, which is where the heart of Chinatown is located.

Whether you are travelling alone or with friends and family, a stopover at  Chinatown  is a must.

The smells and sounds of this captivating neighbourhood is an outstanding sensory experience. For anyone visiting Bangkok for the first time, a full day spent in the labyrinth of alleys and street food vendors in this buzzing place makes for a memorable last day in Bangkok.

If spending the whole day here isn’t something you’re keen to do, and if your visit coincides with you spending the weekend (Friday to Sunday) in Bangkok, you could spend part of your day exploring Chatuchak Market .

One of the biggest markets in the country, it is a shoppers paradise, and you should be able to find everything you’re looking for here!

Once you’ve shopped to your heart’s’ content, head off to grab a nice traditional meal to wrap off the first leg of your 1 week in Thailand.

Suggested tours in Bangkok

Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market – this 7-hour tour from Bangkok covers the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market by paddleboat and the iconic Maeklong Railway Market. You will also get a chance to enjoy authentic Thai food. 

Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch – this day trip from Bangkok is one of the most popular tours where you get to explore the ancient Ayutthaya ruins with a local guide. 

Backstreets Food Tour with 15+ Tastings in Bangkok – enjoy this culinary experience as a professional foodie guide takes you around the streets of Bangkok.

WHERE TO STAY IN BANGKOK

If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the city (which is convenient if you’re gonna be opting for day trips or move around a lot) these are a few of the best options:

Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Located by the Chao Phraya river, even if this is a hotel, it takes away the hustle and bustle of the city and provides a feeling of calm and zen. It provides a free shuttle boat to Taksin BTS Skytrain Station, City Shopping Complex, ICONSIAM Shopping Mall, River and Sala Rim Naam Restaurant. It is about 2.2 miles from Chinatown and Wat Arun.

Mid-range: Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok

Located a mile away from the Grand Palace, Villa Phra Sumen Bangkok boasts of a private balcony for each room. The lighting across the villas is warm and the place is very welcoming. Worth a stay!

Budget-friendly : Tim Maison Bangkok

Located about 1.3 miles from the Grand Palace, each room is spacious, done brightly and has its own ensuite, private bathroom and air-conditioning.

Are you a digital nomad? Then, here are some of the best cafes in Bangkok that are perfect for online working.

DAY 4 – Kanchanaburi

Spend 2 days in kanchanaburi on your 7 days in thailand itinerary.

Kanchanaburi is located about 150 kilometres away from Bangkok. Despite it being home to the famous WWII Death Railway, built by prisoners of the war and pleasant riverside retreats, few people visit Kanchanaburi, even though it is a little over two hours by road from Bangkok.

As this Thailand 7 day itinerary has Phuket next on the list, it is best to visit Kanchanaburi and return to Bangkok as it’s easier to fly to Phuket from Bangkok.

Many prioritized Kanchanburi due to its proximity to the Tiger Temple , a controversial place where visitors could take pictures with tigers and pet them. However, over the years, many now are aware that it’s inhumane to have animals treated this way and hence prefer to visit Kanchanaburi now for its rich history and culture.

If you have the budget, depending on how many people you have travelling with you, you should hire a private car to get around or opt for a day trip.

Head straight for a relaxed lifestyle lunch by the riverfront  The Village Farm To Cafe  once you get here for a hearty meal.

Next, take yourself back in history and visit the  Bridge over the River Kwai . Some of you may have watched the movie of the same name, the inspiration for which was this very site. The Bridge is equally mesmerizing at night when lit up. While there isn’t much to do around it, there are sometimes some street-food stalls you can grab a bite at here.

If you’re looking to learn more about the conditions here during the war, the Bridge and the dreadful conditions of the Allied prisoners of war while building the Bridge, the  Death Railway Museum  is an interactive way to do so.

Suppose you still have time to spare and aren’t tired of visiting museums already. In that case, the Hell Fire Pass Interpretative Museum , which focuses on the creation of the pass by the Allied prisoners of war and local labourers, is a good option.

Enjoy the rest of the evening at the gorgeous open-air  Dejtosapak Restaurant for a memorable dining experience amidst green sights.

Later, you can also opt for a raft ride offered by the restaurant to wrap the day up.

If you’re looking to spend just the day here, you probably will have time just to prioritize these two sights.

DAY 5 – Kanchanaburi

Once you’ve had your breakfast and are ready to start the day, you could opt to climb the 157 steps to get to the top of the stunning  Wat Tham Suea temple . Once you’re at the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the rural Kanchanaburi.

If hiking isn’t your thing (is it worth it though), head directly to the  JEATH War Museum , which shed light on the state of Kanchanaburi before World War.

The museum is open from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

Spend the second half of the day exploring the touristy, recently opened Mallika R.E 124 . Perfect if you’re tired or have kids, this city put together to showcase people’s way of life during King Rama’s V’s reign; it brings life to the architecture from those times.

You can also indulge in street food, local fruits and even buy souvenirs to take back from here.

If spending another day at the museum isn’t to your liking, the Erawan waterfalls are located about an hour away and are among the best waterfalls in Thailand.

Erawan Waterfall & Train Full-Day Tour is a must when you are spending 2 days in Kanchanaburi. This small-group, guided tour is ideal as it includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.

A waterfall with 7 tiers, the sea-green waters may remind one of Laos’s Kuang Si waterfalls. As with Kuang Si, you can swim in the waters here, depending on when you visit.

Return to Bangkok the same day or the next morning, depending on how much you’ve enjoyed the place and how much you would like to rest.

WHERE TO STAY IN KANCHANABURI

If you’re looking to stay by the river or enjoy some relaxing time after an intense couple of days here are a few of the best options:

Luxury: U Inchantree Kanchanaburi U Inchantree Kanchanaburi is a 5 minute walk from the River Kwai, and is on the north bank. It also provides a free shuttle from Bangkok airport and has a pool.

Mid-range: Inchantreedoopool

Located 450 yards from The Bridge of the River Kwai, this stunning property features a garden, sun terrace, air conditioning and is very close to most museums.

Budget-friendly : Baan Ma Feung GuestHouse

Located in the heart of Kanchanaburi, just 30 meters from the bus station. It has air-conditioned rooms and a coffee corner.

DAY 6 – Phuket

Spend 2 days in phuket on your 7 days in thailand itinerary.

The next city on your 7 day trip to Thailand is in southern Thailand; the island territory of Phuket.  Since this is a quick trip, the flight+taxi option will take about four hours to reach Phuket. Here are some   travel options if you’re looking to book.

Spend your first time away from the buzzing city at  Karon  beach and then visit the island’s most well-known attraction and an excellent viewpoint for  Big Buddha .

If you can’t keep away from exploring, visit the historical area of Phuket Old Town , which has not just great architecture but many cute cafes and boutiques where you can spend hours on foot. If temples are your attraction of choice, Wat Chalong is the biggest Buddhist temple in Phuket that supposedly houses a bone fragment from Lord Buddha. These attractions help one get away from the beach and taste the island’s culture.

If you want to get a taste of the nightlife in Phuket, head to  Bangla Road,  where you can visit any of the clubs here to spend an enjoyable evening.

First-time visitors must set aside one full day to visit the  Phi Phi Islands,  located about 50 kilometres away from Phuket. This enthralling group of six islands tower high above the water displaying their incredible limestone cliffs.

To save time, hire a speedboat to get a glimpse of all the islands rather than the slow ferry. If you want a relaxing trip, select one island of your choice and spend the day snorkelling and swimming on that island.

DAY 7 – Phuket

It’s almost the end of your 7 days in Thailand, so it seems ideal to spend the day relaxing in the Pearl of the Andaman Sea and discover the dramatic coast on your own terms.

Hit the  Kata Beach  or the  Nai Harn Beach  to spend some time under the shady palms with just a scattered few vendors to keep you company.

If island-hopping is why you’re in Phuket, hire a speed boat or opt for a tour that will take you  island-hopping around Phang Nga Bay. James Bond Island  (of Kaho Na Pyaar Hai and James Bond fame ) is located here.

Coconut Island, Ko Lon and Ko He are some other islands you can choose to visit if you’d like to keep away from James Bond (officially Khao Phing Kan or Ko Khao Phing Kan) and Phi Phi.

If you’ve missed seeing elephants and love wildlife, the  Green Elephant Sanctuary Park  is the most ethical way of seeing these gentle animals in their natural habitat. You can not only swim with them here but also feed and clean them too.

WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET

Luxury: The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa The property has panoramic views, is located by a peaceful coastline, has a spa and a private balcony with many free classes on offer

Mid-range: The Memory at On On Hotel

Patong Beach is 20 minutes away and the hotel is located in the Old Town that’s worth a explore itself. Each room has air conditioning and ensuite private bathrooms.

Budget-friendly : The Rommanee Boutique Guesthouse

Tastefully done rooms, each with a private bathroom and located in the old town, one of the best options for a budget-stay!

Suggested tours in Phuket

Maya, Phi Phi, and Bamboo Island with Buffet Lunch from Phuket – soak in the beauty of Phi Phi and snorkel on the heart-shaped Bamboo Island with this popular Phuket tour

James Bond Twilight Sea Canoe and Glowing Plankton – be it the limestone rock formations in Phang Nga Bay or kayaking after sunset, this tour from Phuket offers a memorable experience. 

Elephant Experience with Lunch or Dinner and Pickup – Get up close and personal with elephants at Kerchor Elephant Family Phuket with this guided tour.

Approximate budget for 1 week in Thailand

Budgeting your Thailand trip depends greatly on which cities you decide to visit and the activities you opt for.

Thailand offers budget-friendly hostels and homestays, as well as luxury resorts with private beach access. The country is known for lip-smacking street food and has restaurants offering international cuisines, making it one of the most affordable destinations in Asia. 

If you are travelling to Thailand on a budget, you can stay at hostels for as low as 8 euros for one night.

The food is also cheaper, ensuring you can spend less than 10 euros per day for meals.

Consider setting aside 20 euros a day for transportation and activities. That makes it 35 to 40 euros per day.

So, your approximate budget for 1 week in Thailand can be less than 300 euros if you plan in advance and do your research well. It doesn’t include flight ticket prices. 

For mid-range travellers, the cost of a 7-day Thailand trip, excluding flights, can be around 70 to 80 euros per day and around 600 euros for a week. 

Thailand caters well to luxury travellers. From private sightseeing tours to grand beach resorts, it has everything to make your 7 days in Thailand memorable.

The approximate budget for one week of luxury travel in Thailand can be around 2000 euros.

How to get around Thailand?

By flight – In recent years, the best way to get around Thailand has proved to be by flight.

The country has good domestic air connectivity for popular tourist destinations like Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Ko Samui. There are 10 international airports and more than 30 domestic airports serving Thailand. 

By train —Rail transport in Thailand is one of the best ways to get around the country.

This country has all types of trains, from special express trains for luxury travel to ordinary trains for short travel. If you are a budget traveller, travelling by ordinary train is a good option to save money and still get around Thailand.

These ordinary and rapid trains cost less than 2€ for some routes, whereas luxury trains in Thailand can cost as much as 40€.

By bus —Thailand has numerous government-run and private buses that take you around the country.

However, be cautious while travelling by private buses, as several tourists have reported baggage thefts. Some bus operators stop the buses mid-way and demand more money than agreed.

When using public transport in Thailand, it is advisable to opt for government-run buses or trustworthy tour operators.

By car or taxi – this is the best way to travel around when you are spending a week in Thailand.

You can also rent a motorcycle as it is quite a popular mode of transport here. Keep in mind that even though cities have good roads, countryside roads are sometimes not well-maintained.

Navigating the notorious Thai traffic may seem overwhelming if you are visiting Thailand for the first time. Then consider booking a taxi, where your driver can be your local guide. Motorcycle taxis are common in Thai cities. 

By ferry – be it Bangkok canals or the popular Phi Phi islands, get ready to hop on a boat to explore these destinations.

After spending two days in Phuket, you may fly to Bangkok and get a connecting flight to your destination from the Phuket International Airport or spend some additional time in Bangkok itself.

If you want to spend more time in Phuket, here is the Phuket itinerary for your reference.

If you have more than 7 days in Thailand, destinations like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ko Samui, Pattaya , Ko Lanta, Sukhothai and Krabi are just some of the other places worth considering.

Thailand may entice you with its food, wildlife and value for money but I’m sure the warmth of its people will have you visiting this paradise more than once in your lifetime!

FAQs – 7 days in Thailand itinerary

• WHAT CAN YOU DO IN THAILAND IN 7 DAYS?

Quite a lot actually yet not too much! You can choose to spend your 1 week in Thailand in many ways. As mentioned above there’s so many other non-touristic cities you can pick.

There’s Ayutthaya, Thailand’s Gulf islands, Northern Thailand like Chiang Rai. The options are endless! This Thailand trip itinerary gives you a taste of the cities that are most popular to ease you in.

• CAN YOU DO IN THAILAND IN A WEEK?

Absolutely, yet to enjoy this beautiful, friendly destination I’d recommend at least a month! Since that isn’t feasible to most, 7 days to 2 weeks is a good amount.

Spend at least 3 day in Bangkok and then divide the rest amongst how you’d like to spend it – either island hopping or exploring more cities.

• HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED FOR 1 WEEK IN THAILAND?

I’d say depending on what your budget is, it can range a lot however for mid-budget travel, about 50 – 70 pounds a day for a family of two including all meals should suffice.

• CAN YOU USE TAP WATER IN THAILAND?

Tap water in Thailand is only for showering and brushing your teeth. Drinking it isn’t advised, but it’s best to confirm at your resort.

• IS THAILAND SAFE?

Very much so, however, as with each country and city anywhere in the world, be wary of certain areas and ask for recommendations to areas and pubs from your resort/hotel before staying out late pubbing. Be street smart for shopping and it’s all right to haggle if done respectfully!

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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The 7 Best Family Destinations in Thailand to Take the Kids in 2023

If you are considering travelling to Thailand with the kids in tow you’ll certainly find many places that are family-friendly. Yet the best advice when planning a trip with family-oriented Thai destinations in mind is often not to assume that everywhere is family-friendly–at least not without a spot of checking.   

The well-known and thus developed destinations are likely to be the best bet for anyone hitting the Land of Smiles with the family, especially if it’s the first time. That generally equates with locals being geared-up for different visitors and a lot of it depends on your actual requirements in terms of amenities, attractions, and preferred cuisine. 

Knowing when to keep an eye out for loud and raucous nightlife areas as well as spotting potential safety issues will come in handy, as some aspects of Thailand’s lifestyle and culture are hardly the stuff of dream family vacations. These elements are easily bypassed with a spot of prior planning though, and one of the best ways to approach this is to be specific and selective in where you want to stay and the kind of things you want to do. 

Many stressed-out families with frazzled nerves make the mistake of trying to squeeze everything into one trip. The more touristy places that have everything to hand on top of the beaches often make for the best base camps.

The Best Time to Visit

Although many families heading off on their annual summer vacation may be eager to get some fun in the sun, it’s worth knowing that there are certain times of year that might best be avoided in tropical Thailand. 

Put it this way–you won’t see many locals out and about once the temperatures begin to creep into the late 30s and early 40s. That’s generally between around the end of March and the end of May–Thai summertime–when the rather oppressive levels of humidity become unbearable. Those who didn’t take this into consideration before booking  may spend the majority of the time throughout their holiday in a sweat-stained state of mild aggravation.

On top of that there’s monsoon season to consider which typically occurs between around June and November. With it come a number of potential inconveniences such as instant torrential downpours and flooding. 

Have the Right Plan

On top of the right timing, it also pays to have a good idea of which region would best suit your trip. Hitting the mountains up north for instance, followed by 2 days on a beach in the south before heading to Bangkok for the remainder of the trip would take it out of even the most seasoned of travellers.  

Bangkok may be popular for particular reasons, but it’s not always a practical or ideal destination for everyone with small kids in tow–at least not when you consider the alternatives. The northern, southern, and central regions are all quite different in their own ways due to the distance between them and they cater to different types of vacation requirements and expectations.

So let’s take a closer look at some ideas for family-friendly spots that might help you to make a decision on the most suitable region to use as a base for the trip.

Phuket is an island and one of the best options for families when it comes to southern beach holidays in Thailand. It is a popular tourist area which means the best amenities–in fact everything you need is virtually on your doorstep in some resorts and areas. 

The beaches are the idyllic southern variety and there are plenty of activities and sights to keep you and the kids busy if that’s your intention. Of course this makes it expensive compared to many other parts of Thailand, but guarantees a great time unless you pick the wrong time of year weather-wise. 

It’s also possible to get direct flights into Phuket International Airport with some airlines. You’ll find plenty of resorts as well as beaches here too, and many say whether or not they accommodate families. 

In sightseeing terms there are plenty of family-friendly spots and attractions like natural parks, water parks and aquariums. It does have its rowdy nightlife areas as well, namely around the Patong area.

Example Things to Do

• Plenty of kid-friendly activities like water parks, a surf house, kids clubs, and an Elephant Sanctuary
• For the older kids (typically upwards of 8) there are also plenty of zip-lining and wakeboarding-type adventures to hand
• Activities like indoor ice-skating and rock climbing can also be found to name just two
• Western and other non-Thai food & restaurant options are easily found

Getting There and Getting Around 

If you aren’t flying directly to the island and instead opt for a transfer from the main airport in the Thai capital there are a couple of things to know. Phuket is less than a 2-hour flight from Bangkok , with numerous operations every day. 

There are various other transport options for reaching Phuket by road from Bangkok by car, taxi, and coach. These trips will likely take 12 hours or more and may thus not be an option for many families. 

The local transport mafia options have always been a bit overpriced even for locals due to the monopolised operations, but the good news is that Grab is available in Phuket. In our book it is flat-out the best way to ensure the right prices, destination, and service, and will reduce the likelihood of any potential mishaps with local transport etc..  

2. Koh Chang

The island of Koh Chang is the third-largest Island in Thailand and contains scenic beaches and lush rainforest regions.

You’ll find plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities here–especially the outdoor and water-based types like hiking, snorkelling, swimming in natural pools with waterfalls, or trying your hand in a jungle adventure course. Many of the hotels and resorts are family-friendly and feature various activities like kids’ clubs to keep the young ‘uns occupied.

• Checking out natural attractions like Klong Plu Waterfall
• Doing some snorkelling at Pearl Beach
• Hiking through Mu Koh Chang National Park
• Spending a few hours at Treetop Adventure Park

Getting There & Getting Around

There are various ways to get to the island. The method you employ will depend to some extent on where you are coming from (i.e. from Bangkok or from your point of origin). 

There are several, daily, one-hour flights from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Trat–the nearest airport from the ferry terminals at around 30 minutes away by road, which can be done by minibus transfer companies that offer the complete transfer for around 700-1000 baht including the ferry fee. 

Either that or you can arrange your own private transfer by the accommodation if the service is offered. Many economy travellers heading to the island from Bangkok are likely to catch the bus from Ekkamai Station, which is the Eastern Bus Terminal. The buses run to both ferry terminals and are the cheapest option for getting to the island (although not the fastest at around 5 hours). 

Once on the island it is easy enough to get around by one of the songthaews that run all the main routes. This method of transport is cheap enough with stop fees generally ranging between around 50 and 200 baht. There are also various other taxis and tour operators around common areas like ferry terminals.

3. Koh Samui

Koh Samui is another top place for a total beach holiday which comes along with the option of a spot of adventurous exploration. This may be along the lines of frolicking happily all day on an idyllic beach, or for older kids there’s the opportunity for zip-lining or quad-biking. 

There is plenty on this southern Thai island to suit a family itinerary and much of it is fully geared-up for kids and family activities.Western food is readily available including fast food like burgers and pancakes, although you’ll also find healthier options like home-made yoghurts and smoothies etc.

• Spending time in Ang Thong Marine Park
• Explore the terrain on ATV and Quad Bike Tours
• Indulge in some cooling water fun with Pink Elephant Samui Water Park
• Elephant Sanctuary & Jungle Tour

Your choice for getting to the island will most likely be influenced by the ages of your children, but one of the main routes to the island is by plane from Bangkok to Samui’s own airport.  

Another way is to head to Surat Thani where the nearest mainland airport to the island is located. Trains and coaches run there from Bangkok, and after that it’s a 2.5-hour ferry to the island. 

Samui is a relatively small island so it’s not so difficult to get around and most journeys are pretty short. The main route circling Songthaews is once again the most common option for jumping from different destinations if that’s part of your plan. There are also taxis if you fancy slightly more comfort and Grab is available although apparently not in great numbers due to lack of drivers. 

4. Ao Nang and Railay Beach 

This picturesque region of Thailand’s south has scenery that’ll make lasting memories for any family. In many ways it makes a great family vacation destination due to the slow pace, the distinct lack of cars, and the family-friendly hotels and resorts. 

It takes something close to a small adventure to get to Railay though, as we’ll touch on later. Partly due to the location and almost cut-off remoteness, this Thai beach destination offers a great range of activities for the adventurous, many of which the landscape is ideal for–like rock climbing. 

The town is surrounded by water on 3 sides, which makes getting there a bit more of an expedition that might not be that suitable for anyone with really young kids. Any adventurous families who make it there will find it more than worth the trek though.

• Take a tour of a local Elephant Sanctuary
• Try your hand at a spot of leisurely Paddle-Boarding on the beach
• Enjoy the thrill of some Zip-Lining just minutes away from the town and Ao Nang
• Take a trip to a whole host of other nearby islands with their own special features and experience snorkelling in places such as Koh Phi Phi

The most common way to clear the main leg of the journey is by flying into Krabi Airport . Special buses and coaches also run from Bangkok if you are coming from the capital and fancy a slightly cheaper (but much longer) trip by road. VIP sleeper coaches take somewhere in the region of 12 hours. 

After that it’s a taxi/car to Ao Nang and if you are heading to Railay Beach the final leg is by boat, the only way to access the beach and area. You have four main choices in terms of where to position yourself at Railay Beach by way of Railay Bay West, Railay Bay East, Phra Nang or Tonsai Beach, and it’s best to try and figure the right spot as there are no roads here and thus little along the lines of transportation options. 

If you figure the trek down to Thailand’s south doesn’t tick all your boxes for any reason you might consider Hua Hin , a great town on the western coast. It has long been popular with Thai families from the city for short breaks. 

In fact this is the kind of seaside resort that would facilitate a day trip or two to Bangkok if you really needed to, as the capital is just a couple of hours away by road. The region has many beaches and is surrounded by mountains, some with their own features and viewpoints. 

Hua Hin is a clean and laid-back type of affair with a diverse range of activities and interests such as temples, night markets, and water parks.

• Spending the day at the Black Mountain Water Park
• Venturing up to Wat Khao Takiab where you’ll encounter both monkeys and some great views
• Enjoying the clean-looking beaches and the seasonal activities like water sports and pony riding
• Heading for Kaeng Krachan National Park and Pala-U Waterfall  

Getting There & Getting Around  

Hua Hin is about 200 km/125 miles from Bangkok–just over 2 hours by road. If you are looking for travel experience though there are other options, including taxi/Grab, buses, and trains from the capital or you may organise a private car transfer from your accommodation if offered. 

Getting around Hua Hin itself is easy enough as it’s a pretty small beach town. You might consider bicycle hire depending on where you are staying or again the trusty local songthaew is the best way to go a bit further like down to Khao Takiab or beyond.

6. Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is another island with idyllic and pristine beaches in Thailand’s south. It offers a somewhat quieter option than places like Samui and Phuket though, and is much less developed.

That said this beautiful part of the south also has plenty of outdoor-type activities to hand that are ideal for families.

• Head to Koh Lanta National Park and its natural rainforest landscape permeated by plenty of monkeys
• Walk the length of Long Beach, the longest in the region
• Check out Klong Dao Beach with its strip of restaurants and bars that are very kid-friendly–many have small playground areas and the sea is shallow and gentle
• Book yourself on a scuba, snorkelling, or kayaking tour

Getting There

One option is to fly into Phuket International Airport, where you can book a ferry ticket then transfer to Rassada Pier (preferably in the morning) by taxi. The ferry operates between 8.30 am and 10.00pm. 

Some visitors book a private minivan transfer from Phuket Airport to Lanta which takes around 4 hours and Phuket bus station also has a decent minibus service to Koh Lanta throughout the high season. This is very cheap compared to other methods at around 250 baht per person. 

You can also fly into Krabi Airport and organise a transfer to Lanta easily enough. If you are coming in from elsewhere you can also fly in Trang Airport and then get a similar minivan transfer to Koh Lanta that works out a bit cheaper than the one from Phuket.

7. Chiang Mai 

The northern regions of Thailand are great for those seeking culture, adventure, and breathtaking natural scenarios. The more outdoor-type families will enjoy Chiang Mai which offers way more outdoor activities than the more urbanised regions. 

Here you can find yourself surrounded by a backdrop of northern Thai mountains, and there are a few cultural touches unlike anywhere else in the country. Local Lanna Buddhist temples and their 700-year long history is a completely different experience than doing a Bangkok ‘temple tour’ for instance. 

The weather is cooler up north, the pace is slower, and the people seem quite a bit more friendly than somewhere like the capital. The open landscapes and more spread-out terrain lend themselves well to the Thailand experience, and the weather makes for a more comfortable experience for any little ones.

• Visit one of the Elephant Sanctuaries
• Go jungle trekking in the surrounding northern terrain
• Spend a day at Doi Inthanon National Park and see waterfalls and peaks, including Doi Suthep, the highest in Thailand
• Check out Kampan Rafting for an afternoon of white water fun 

Getting There & Getting Around 

Bangkok to Chiang Mai is travelled by various routes in Thailand including train and bus. These are budget-friendly but probably too slow for a family, often taking up to 12 hours. So flying in from Bangkok is the quickest method.

The 1.5 hr flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai has the added expense of getting from the airport as no public transport is available. Luckily the airport is only about 20 minutes away from the city by car or taxi, and prices are usually fixed for the transfer unless the service is offered by your accommodation.

Once in the town itself you’ll find once again the songthaew is once again the main means of getting around if you want to do some sightseeing.Taxis are available but not always so easy to find, and Grab is also available in the region.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, there is never going to be one ideal destination in Thailand that suits all families. Much of the enjoyment factor depends on things like how well you travel as a family, what kind of environment best suits your stay, and of course the kind of activities and amenities to hand that you might like. 

So these destinations are our top choices based on various factors to suit a range of family interests. Keep in mind that there are lots of great experiences to be had in Thailand on family vacations, but the right prior planning will help you no end to maximise the enjoyment.  

Mark Philip is a writer and lifestyle enthusiast from the Midlands in the U.K. With a background in martial arts and fitness, Mark upped sticks and headed out to Bangkok to delve a bit deeper into the art of Thai Boxing way back in the 2000s, starting to write initially to fund his daily training and escape the rigours of ESL teaching. Since then Mark has authored e-books, articles, and blogs across a wide range of topics for commercial, educational, factual, health & fitness, lifestyle, wellness, and leisure-based purposes.

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Complete Guide

Family trip to thailand.

Thailand has in recent years become a highly preferred destination for family vacations, one of the top holiday destinations in the world. The demand for family trips in Thailand is growing and not for nothing, the unique experience for children to meet a different culture from what they knew. And the variety of attractions and activities that Thailand has to offer. From jeep tours in the north, riding and bathing with elephants in Kanchanaburi to a refreshing dip in the waterfalls, a tummy tuck on white sands in the islands, the most luxurious hotels, and in Bangkok where the meeting of east and west of a modern city is replete with huge canyons. A shopping dream where you can find everything and cheaply.

Amusement parks, a water park, and one of the largest aquariums in the world make the perfect experience for the whole family. No need to spend a fortune or break savings plans for a family trip to Thailand, everything is cheap, everything is available, and the prices of flights to Thailand that have been significantly reduced in recent years allow you to come to Thailand all year round. Do not worry in Thailand it is always hot and it is always the season to visit.

We at Thailand Holiday Group have been specialising for years in organising trips, especially for families, for a vacation of up to 28 days by prior arrangement. We build a route tailored to each family within your timeframe and budget.

By pre-booking, you are guaranteed a place at the cheapest prices, and you always have somewhere to turn for any problem. We are located in Bangkok, at the heart of the area for travelers and backpackers from all over the world. Also, many years of experience in organizing family trips in Thailand.

We are available in Thailand 24 hours a day to give you an answer and advice for any question or problem in order to fulfil your perfect vacation. So when there is not much time and you are in a country as vast as Thailand, let us do the hard work and your only task is to come and enjoy your holiday in peace when everything is already arranged for you and your family.

Hotels in Thailand for families

Most rooms in hotels in Thailand are built for a limited number of people so a family will need two and sometimes three separate rooms (Maybe even a suite of two or three rooms.) Only we at the Thailand Holiday Group can find you a reservation in advance and subject to availability a combination of adjoining rooms, the option of a connecting door and at cheaper prices than any other website.

Pay attention to those who send us an e-mail. Please check your mailbox, so that the e-mails we send to you do not enter spam/junk mail. For those who send an email from work, it is advisable to indicate an alternative email in addition, since many workplaces block emails as spam and do not inform the employee.

So how do you book a family vacation in Thailand?

We are available to you with personal service and treatment all the way, from planning the trip while you are in Israel and while availability and personal accompaniment in Hebrew from Thailand through our call centre in Bangkok and through one of the front branches in Chiang Mai, Cosmoi, Phuket and Bangkok.

Please fill in the following details in the pop up box to the right: Full name, phone number, email, ages of people coming, dates of arrival in Thailand, preferences where you would like to stay and how many days in each destination or indicate if you would like our fresh recommendations from the area etc.

Do not skimp on any detail as it is essential for customising your family trip itinerary in Thailand. We are here for you with over 12 years of experience in arranging family trips to Thailand at the best prices available.

Phuket Family Holidays

Recommended hotels for families.

Recommended attractions for families

Family activities in Thailand come in all shapes and sizes. It’s a fantastic country for families to visit with so much to see and do.

Wildlife Activities

Things to do in Thailand with kids include visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary to learn about these gentle giants and giving a baby elephant a mud bath or taking the Flight of the Gibbon zipline to experience a monkey’s viewpoint from the jungle canopy. Trekking some simple trails in various national parks scattered across the country to see native wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.

Water Parks

There are several world-class water parks designed for optimal family fun. In Hua Hin, Black Mountain Water Park has a wave pool, several water slides and lots of other water activities. Another thrilling water is Vana Nava Water Jungle. Set within 3.2 hectares of tropical jungle, the park features 19 waterslides and Thailand’s tallest and only thrilling vertical looping slide called the Aqualoop, and the heart-pounding Freefall.

Island Cruising

Taking a long-boat cruise around the many islands off the coast of Phuket or Koh Samui and stop to snorkel in some incredibly scenic spots. 

From Koh Samui, families can island-hop to Koh Phangan, Ko Tao and the lesser-known Ang Thong islands.

Nestled between Phuket and Krabi, Phang Nga Bay is a bay with breathtaking limestone rock formations, caves, beach havens and hidden lakes. Many tour operators can arrange trips but sea canoeing is a fun way to explore this spectacular region. As well as to the famous Phi Phi islands located off the mainland coast of Krabi. 

Krabi province boasts impressive natural attractions and is home to Ko Lanta National Park with famous diving sites. Nearby Ko Lipe is known for its natural beauty and is an idyllic paradise featuring a marine park with impressive coral-rich snorkelling and diving spots. Further afield, Koh Lanta is developed and yet still uncrowded. After sundown, luminescent plankton can be found in the warm surrounding waters.

Khao Sok National Park

Covering a huge 739 square kilometres, it features rich rainforests, wildlife sanctuaries, limestone structures, and the scenic Cheow Larn Lake in the heart of the park where families can stay overnight in floating bungalows. Its climate and weather remain consistent throughout the year making it a must-see destination at any time. Take a local guide and hike through some of the most ancient and bio-diverse forests in Thailand.

To break up an urban trip, only two hours drive away from Bangkok you will reach the popular coastal area of Pattaya in Chonburi Province. Pattaya has a notorious reputation for nightlife, but there are lots of activities for families and kids to do. The Sanctuary of Truth, the curiosities at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, Khao Kheow Open Zoo and eco-adventure park at the Flight of the Gibbon, Botanical Gardens complete with an animal petting zoo and bird atrium, Underwater World Pattaya and a variety of water parks to splash about in will leave adults and their little ones happily exhausted from so much stimulation overload!

Tour Bangkok by River and Canal

You can sightsee around Bangkok by boat via the extensive river and canal system. Taking the Tourist boats of Bangkok is a picturesque and fun way for the whole family to see all the major attractions such as the famous Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn, Grand Palace, Ratchawongse pier in Chinatown, and Tha Maharaj in the old city. These boats fly blue flags and stop at many of the major piers along the Chao Phraya river. Another option is touring a traditional floating market in canoes and shopping like a local. Certainly, experience kids will never forget!

Bangkok has loads of fun activities for kids in places like Dream World, Safari World and SEA LIFE Ocean World Bangkok, Children’s Discovery Museum, Museum of Siam, Kidzania and Imaginia Playground.

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island with a myriad of activities for families with some beautiful beach spots where young kids can splash in the sea and play on the soft sand while the older ones can enjoy water sports like sea canoeing, wakeboarding, boogie boarding or Water Parks, Phuket Bird Park and Aquarium are great for kids of all ages to learn about the native wildlife.

Recommended attractions for families in Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island with a myriad of activities for families with some beautiful beach spots where young kids can splash in the sea and play on the soft sand while the older ones can enjoy water sports like sea canoeing, wakeboarding, boogie boarding or Water Parks, Phuket Bird Park and Aquarium are great for kids of all ages to learn about the native wildlife.

Phuket is a mountainous and rainforested island province in Thailand and boasts some of the world’s popular beach destinations with its powdery fine white sands, palm trees, clear azure seas and lively towns. On the west coast where most of the stunning beaches lie are various luxury accommodation options of excellent value. There are spas and restaurants. In the capital of the same name, can be found old shophouses and thriving markets. The main resort town of Patong is home to nightclubs, bars and discos. All these have made Phuket the first internationally famous Thailand destination, second only to Bangkok.

Phuket’s amazing beaches number more than 30, the most popular being Patong, Kata, Karon and Kamala although the northern shore hides some gems for those seeking a more romantic, private environment.

Phuket has something to offer every taste and interest and budget, with hundreds of accommodation options, an eclectic collection of dining and partying options. Not only these are on Phuket’s plate for each visitor, whether solo, couple, family groups or friends and colleagues. And there are several nearby islands, equally beautiful, to visit and explore, or you can enjoy a leisurely cruise around Phang Nga Bay.

Things to do in Phuket

Nature adventures.

• The Tiger Kingdom. At the foot of Patong Hill is Phuket’s recent attractions. Tigers native to Indochina of all ages and sizes are raised by professional trainers. Visitors choose the tiger to visit in its cage for a picture by a professional photographer. The baby tigers can be cute and attractive. Tickets cost 800 Baht. Open from 9 am to 6 pm daily.
• Phuket Monkey School . Great place for families to go to – seeing the monkeys being trained to pick up coconuts and do tricks, e.g. sit-ups, basketball, riding a tricycle, scuba diving.
• Phuket Butterfly Garden and Insect World . Learn about butterflies and insects in the breeding room and understand how a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly. The farm breeds from 6,000-8,000 30 species of butterflies a month. There is an exhibit of rare insect specimens, stick insects, leaf insects, tarantulas, scorpions. You can end this learning trip with a visit to the silk museum and see the looming, dying and weaving of Thai silk. The garden is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.t
• Phuket Orchid Farm . Phuket’s largest exhibition of over 1,500 different hybrids and species for visitors to marvel with fascination! There are garden tours available for information on these lovely flowers. There is a restaurant on site serving homemade passion fruit and mango ice cream. On the farm, they also sell delightful orchid jewellery handcrafted from real orchids plated with 24k gold, which are on display too.
• Gibbon Rehabilitation Center . Established in 1992 as a rescue place for abandoned gibbons in preparation for their release and return to their natural wild habitats. The centre accepts volunteers willing to commit at least 3 weeks to help feed the animals and join the outreach education activities, as well as donations and T-shirt purchases to sustain the centre’s programs. It is located within the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park and is open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm.
• Khao Phra Thaeo National Park . Phuket’s last remaining virgin evergreen rainforest and located on the island’s northeast side is a wildlife sanctuary home to 80 bird species, around 20 reptiles species. Most of this wildlife is out of sight but a guide could help you identify their sounds. A good walk around the park will take you to the Tonsai Waterfall and close by is Bang Pae Waterfall . Near the bottom of Tongsai Waterfall is a small museum and information centre.
• Sirinat National Park , south of Phuket International Airport, is known for its white sandy beaches – Nai Yang, Nai Thon and Mai Khao, and the beach forest of several pine tree species and other tropical trees, a mangrove forest where the freshwater stream converges with the sea. There is a nature trail and wooden walkway with signs explaining the various plant and animal species within. Offshore are clustered some coral reef species as well.

ISLAND CRUISING

Take a long-boat cruise around the many islands off the coast of Phuket and stop to snorkel in some incredibly scenic spots. 

Nestled between Phuket and Krabi, Phang Nga Bay is dotted with breathtaking limestone rock formations, caves, beach havens and hidden lakes. Many tour operators can arrange trips but sea canoeing is a fun way to explore this spectacular region. As well as the famous Phi Phi islands located off the mainland coast of Krabi. 

Another group of islands near enough for day trips is Koh Similan in the Andaman Sea. There are boat trips leaving Phuket for the Similan Islands. This is one of the most interesting dive areas in the world, also a frequent destination for yachts and tour boats, for its hard coral of more than 200 species in the waters. The tours from Phuket offer different levels of luxury and accompanying facilities.

Bangla Road

Some of the best nightlife in the world, so it’s said, is on Bangla Road in the Patong Beach area. After the sun sets the road is closed to all transport traffic and neon lights and blaring music emerge, entertainment venues open and the strip becomes one whole dance party street!

There is a wide selection of live entertainment venues with international acts and in-house DJs, thus any kind of partygoer will find a venue of their type – from full moon parties to beach clubs to sports bars to electronic dance parties, the Bangla Road nightlife is something you’ve never ever come across before!

Bangla Street Food is an open space with cooking stalls under colourful tents in the plaza centre and dining tables around. Night market dining seems to be trending in Thailand. The delectable food is cheap because you have to go to the cooking station yourself to order your food and take it back cooked, with a drink, to your table.

Talad Kaset Night Market

One of the largest night markets in downtown Phuket – to enjoy tasty street food from 3 different influences – Thai, Chinese and Muslim. The place starts to welcome customers in the early evening but by 8 pm it becomes a bustling hive of activity until late evening. Night-shift workers come to the place before getting to work, clubbers come for snacks to end their night.

Heaven Restaurant and Bar

Cited as one of the “10 Best Restaurants in Kata Beach” and “9 Great Phuket Restaurants with a View,” this is an enchanting bar and restaurant with a rooftop deck and main dining area that presents its guests with breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. During late afternoons, you get a stunning panorama of the sunset over Kata Noi Beach, Kata Beach and Karon Beach towards the Andaman. All these while savouring an array of local seafood specialities done in the traditional, local way at a reasonable cost!

Day Tours and Shopping

Thai cuisine is famed worldwide for its delectable flavours, especially for its Pad Thai and Tomyum. But Phuket’s claim to gastronomic delight is in its seafood, fresh and sumptuous, and not expensive!

However, there is a vast range of dining options available in Phuket, from your hotel’s restaurant to a street stall to a fine-dining restaurant, with so many choices of menus from Western to Asian.

There are other activities to occupy you and your partner or with your family during the day aside from watersports.

• Join organized Day tours
• Phuket Offroad Fun Park and Patong Go-Kart Speedway. Phuket’s no. 1 Go-karting track. Open 10 am to 7 pm daily.
• Phuket Fishing Park. The only freshwater fishing lake in Thailand, with more than 12 species available. Open 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday to Sunday
• Dino Park Mini Golf. A dinosaur-themed 18-hole mini-golf park just right for family fun. Open daily 10 am to 11 pm.
• Phuket Heritage Trails
• Watersports: Surfing, snorkelling, para-gliding, scuba diving, kite surfing, jet skiing and more

These are just some of the multitude of activity choices waiting for you in Phuket. You can arrange for these before your trip when planning your booking for your holidays with our travel specialists.

Phuket Beaches

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island so you can easily imagine a coastline of unspoiled pristine beaches to enjoy, somewhat setting the standard for a tropical island paradise. Here are some of the most popular.

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the most famous of Phuket’s beaches with its crescent stretch of fine white sand, for water sports enthusiasts, and it is the liveliest, for the party people and night adventurers. Most probably because it is near the vibrant and colourful Bangla Road. So it has the most to offer than the other beaches, insofar as activities and nightlife are concerned. It is famous for its nightlife, for the beer bars, karaoke bars, night clubs. This is the beach that would be specified in action-packed holiday packages of nightlife-cum-party people.

Freedom Beach

True to its name, Freedom Beach allows you to be free of hustle, bustle, crowds and accompanying noise. Reachable only by boat or through a jungle trek, it has remained a quiet and unspoiled 300m strip of clear blue sea with the dense foliage lining the shore.

Karon Beach

Karon Beach attracts tourist seeking watersports – on the southern side is a rocky area to snorkel and do jet skiing. If you prefer scuba diving, there are some dive shops too. It’s a long beach so there’s a lot of room for everyone to enjoy the sandy beach, plus there are some bars for night entertainment. The monsoon season of the year is not the best time to stay here because the waves can get pretty rough.

Kata Beach is long and big to house shops displaying local crafts and resorts, a perfect area for families with its soft coral sand and palm trees lining the shore and a lot of nearby shops for eating and drinking. Its waters attract surfers aside from sun-worshippers.

Kata Noi Beach

South of Kata Beach is Kata Noi Beach, a smaller quieter version but with its own charm, including fancy dining spots and resorts, for those who just want to bask in the sand and relax. For adrenaline rush seekers, the sea is perfect to dive in for snorkelling and surfing.

Nai Harn Beach

Nai Harn Beach is on a bay south of Phuket. It has powdery soft sand and a sea that goes from calm to strong currents in the monsoon season, which draws in surfing and kiteboarding aficionados. There is a lake behind the beach and guests come to fish or glide on its water in swan-shaped pedalos.

FAQs About Family Trip to Thailand

Certainly, Phuket is a great destination for holidays with your family. You will discover a great number of choices for sightseeing, like shops with local crafts and cultural sites, fascinating night markets with great prices, miles of beaches for diving, island-hopping, snorkelling, other exciting water sports and a lot of kid-friendly activities. A Phuket family holiday is a rewarding experience but it will first need some planning and preparation. Phuket’s beaches are among the most stunning in the world but kids can get bored easily and would seek other things to do. There are a lot of holiday packages at excellent value that THG can give you booking advice on – flights, accommodation options, activities, especially child-friendly activities that would be interesting, exciting and adventurous for them.

Taking Phuket family holidays is a great idea for family rest and relaxation, and bonding. But the destination and location and type of hotel accommodation are both critical factors to having a blast of a holiday. If this holiday is going to be your first time in Phuket, or Thailand, visit our website for inquiries and basic information. Thailand Holiday Group (THG) is among the top-rated websites for Thailand holiday packages. Our edge is that we are based in Thailand! Our travel specialists can guide you on your choice of hotel or resort, plan with you on your itineraries and activities like if your kids would want to learn how to snorkel and dive, prepare packages for all your needs and get your the best value-for-money deals that ensure you get a truly memorable family holiday!

The whole Thai kingdom is generally safe. There are no threats on children or families that would harm their safety. So far, crimes on tourists are rare and limited to petty thefts like pick-pocketing or drunken fights in bars. Any other danger would be from the sea when the waves are high and some beaches have strong rip tides. Always heed warning signs, posted or announced by lifeguards and marker flags on safe and unsafe areas. As regards the pandemic, you don’t have to take any action for children’s vaccinations prior to your Phuket holiday. However, many medical organizations recommend doing so. Better still, consult your family doctor and discuss your plans. For other situational information, you can visit the Thailand tourism website and get updated.

There is a myriad of activities awaiting families in Phuket, whether you are seeking action and adventure or rest and relaxation. Here is a sample of the popular things families do in Phuket: Baan Teelanka. This is a three-storey upside-down house, with all the typical furnishings placed on the roof instead of on the floor. The backyard has a maze-like garden, too. It is open daily from 9:05 am to 6:15 pm Trickeye Museum. This is an interactive 3-D painting exhibit of around 100 painted and sculpted scenes using “trompe-l’oiel” (French phrase meaning “Optical Illusion”) techniques, creating unreal by lifelike situations, making for great photo ops for the kids and family. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm. Splash Jungle Water Park. One of the features of the Great West Sands Villa Phuket, this immense waterpark has a great many water slides, a 335-meter Lazy River, “Boomerango” rides, an amazing wave pool, with pools and gentler slides for toddlers and small kids. Access is free for hotel guest, outsiders pay an affordable ticket price. All of these activities are manned by trained lifeguards. Surf House Phuket. A chance for the family to ride the waves, every day, rain or shine, with spots for children and adults. Expert supervision is provided to kids, thus parents can relax in the adjacent restaurant and bar. Dino Park Mini Golf. Great family opportunity for fun together, in a prehistoric environment. With 18 holes, each having a theme, kids get different insights into the world in ancient times. These are just a few of those activities your family can do and enjoy together. Just among the reasons why Phuket is among the top holiday destinations!

Definitely! As you have been reading from above, there are numerous places to see, cultural attractions, coastlines full of white powdery-soft sands, enticing blue waters, kid-friendly or kid-focused activities and hotel accommodations featuring care and fun for kids big and small.

While the ideal selection of facilities will vary depending on the age of your children, we recommend looking for resorts that offer: Kids’ club or playgrounds (in most cases, this will be free) Children’s swimming pool Babysitting or childcare services upon request Cribs or baby cots  Connecting rooms  Alternatively, take a look at our recommendations of the best family resorts around Phuket.

Certainly, it is. Patong Beach is relatively safe for a lone traveller, a couple or a family. Reported crimes are petty like scams or pick-pocketing but these can happen anywhere. Discuss with the travel specialist or check out our website and the Thailand tourism website for safety tips and information.

A self-drive Thailand holiday is a great and comfortable way to explore the Kingdom, especially if you’re not staying in Bangkok. Renting a car allows you the freedom to tour the country at your own pace and get off the beaten track to discover new and interesting places to go in Thailand. Be aware that if you wish to drive on holidays, the law does require foreigners to have an “International Driving Permit” (IDP) issued from their home country.

International flights to and from Bangkok generally operate from Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is the newer international airport. Higher-end domestic airlines such as Bangkok Airways operate flights out of this airport too. But low-cost carriers generally use the older airport Don Mueang. From these two international airports, you can go to other destinations in the kingdom.

You will get our travel specialists to give you valuable advice on the huge variety of hotel accommodations available in destinations throughout the kingdom when booking deals for your holidays. These range from Thailand luxury escapes in exclusive resorts, to chain-brand hotels, boutique hotels, villas, budget hotels and guesthouses and hostels. You will find accommodation to suit all types of budgets.

Australian visitors to Thailand can get a free Visa on Arrival for up to 30 days if entering by aircraft or for 15 days if entering overland. This waiver only applies to those with a confirmed onward ticket and at least 6 months passport validity. For more than 30 days, you can apply for a visa in person or by mail to the Thai Embassy in your country. The type of visa will be issued in accordance with the applicant’s purpose of visit. Normally it takes around 3 days to process applications for visas.

If applying to stay in Thailand longer than 30 days, you can apply for a visa in person or by mail to the Thai Embassy in your country. The type of visa will be issued in accordance with the applicant’s purpose of visit. Visas are generally valid for 3 months, but in some cases may be granted for up to 6 months, 1 year or 3 years, depending on the type of visa. Normally it takes around 3 days to process applications for visas.

Booking Thailand holiday packages allow you to combine flights, accommodation, activities, transportation and transfers all into one bundle so it’s cheaper overall. It also takes the stress out of planning out an itinerary and all the details- leave the holiday packages preparations to the travel experts!

Whenever you are ready! Anytime is a good time to discover and book holiday packages to Thailand.

For comfortable holidays in Thailand, it’s recommended that travellers to Thailand ensure inoculations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid at a minimum and also Hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis or Rabies depending on which regions they’re visiting and the activities they are planning to do. Malaria prevention tablets may be recommended for travel to remote areas. from the usual tourist areas. But these are unnecessary for popular tourist hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket or Koh Samui. Be aware of mosquitos in general because they can carry Dengue fever, especially common during the wet season but only around during the daytime.

Very good, it is indeed, a great country for a family vacation. Read on below and on the other pages to know more about what Thailand can give for the liveliest family holidays you can imagine. You just might sign booking deals for holiday packages with us after you do.

That is some of the best advice that you can get from our travel specialists. They will guide you through every step of the preparation for your trip and help ensure that you get the liveliest deals for all the fun to give you a most memorable family holiday to Thailand.

Yes, Thailand is one safe destination for families. If you read on to the rest of the page, and on the other pages, you can read for yourself. Of course, Thailand is a foreign country so standard travel protocols need to be applied, like common sense, awareness of surroundings and all.

First, decide on what kind of holiday you want your family to have – seaside (beaches) or countryside or forest and mountain or city/urban. Then you can look up the destinations some of which we have mentioned below. The best thing then is to contact our travel specialists to give you advice and guide you on your itineraries in the destinations you choose, booking your travel and hotel choices and travel entry requirements to Thailand. They can get you the best value for money Thailand holidays for the family when you sign up.

Oh yes, indeed! Chiang Mai is one of the great destinations for a family trip to Thailand. First, it is a safe place, with a relaxed atmosphere and not too big to get lost in. It has a range of family-friendly hotel choices for you to stay in. There is a myriad of exciting adventures and fun activities for the whole family, like the sanctuaries for rescued elephants and other animals from the wild, a zoo, local and night markets where famous Thai food and colourful crafts and souvenirs can be bought, amazing temples and museums to browse and learn about the culture and history of the place and its people, the indigenous hill tribes. In the countryside, you can have trekking and rafting activities too!

There are sleeper trains in Thailand with a second class shared compartment and a first-class private compartment. Children 3 years and below are free of charge, older kids up to 12 years old qualify for a discount.

Being popular destinations for families and other types of travellers you can find Thailand family holiday packages in these areas. There are family-friendly luxury hotel deals which our travel specialists can help you with when you sign booking deals for your holidays with us.

Thai food is usually prepared as spicy as you prefer, thus, it can be safe for children to eat and enjoy.

The tuk-tuk is not just a safe vehicle for children (toddlers, of course, still need help and attention) for sightseeing. It can seat up to 6 passengers comfortably and it is an outdoor ride, and it is in itself a cultural attraction to the children! Going around the city in the tuk-tuk is different from riding in a car, plus it is an adventure experience. The whole family can get to see more sights (and learn about each structure and monument) without the fatigue from walking in the tropical heat. It is safe because the tuk-tuk has a speed limit much slower than the motorized vehicles. It is environment-friendly! the family holiday will be made more fun because of the unique experience of riding the tuk-tuk together!

Thai is the main language spoken and the official language of Thailand. English has become the most common second language because of its popularity as a holiday destination. Many local Thai study English at school and practice with foreign friends too.

Chiang Mai: the northern hub of Thailand’s culture, with a calm atmosphere, so much fun and exciting adventures for big and small kids and adults, from museums to zoos, spectacular temples, local night markets and cooking schools. Events like trekking, rafting, ziplining, elephant sanctuaries, hill tribe communities. Pai, northern Thailand: easily accessible by car from Chiang Mai on a relaxed drive thru the northern scenic countryside. See a circus training school do jungle trekking and rafting, savour the healthy and delicious side of Thai food. with nearby caves to explore en route from Chiang Mai. Bangkok: The bustling capital city of the country has a wide array of offerings for family activities, theme parks, museums, indoor playgrounds, Pad Thai and other local Thai street food, temples and of course, the Grand Palace and the ancient city of Ayutthaya a couple of hours drive away. Krabi: The perfect destination for beach and sea lovers, for snorkelling and diving and gliding along Thailand’s underwater paradise. Take the family on adventure tours or day trips to national parks, waterfalls, rescued elephants in sanctuaries, rock climbing too. Krabi has the best climbing spots in the country. Phuket: Phuket has offerings of gorgeous beaches back-to-back with an interestingly charming old town. Many of the resorts have children’s pools and kids’ clubs and offer babysitting services for the adults to have their private time. Accessible from different parts of the country and with direct flights from other countries too. Koh Chang: Koh Chang has a more casual vibe than Phuket, popular among backpackers and families. Hotel options range from low-range beach bungalows to boutique resorts, the island offers family bonding fun activities of swimming, snorkelling, and exploring waterfalls. Koh Samui: One of the earliest destinations for Thailand family holidays, Koh Samui is very accessible with most things you’d need for a holiday in place. There are Thailand resorts for party people and there are some for a serene getaway too. Most resorts have kids programs and many family-friendly activities to do. Thailand family holiday packages will be convenient with the various accommodation options for all budget ranges and all types of travellers. With menus offering the best of international and local dishes. Where you can experience the warmth of Thai hospitality.

Thailand is among the best destinations for family holiday packages because of the many family-friendly resorts and hotels in popular destinations. The parks have diverse themes and fun offerings and activities. Family travel with small kids can be fun and safe even on beaches, day trips or educational tours for sightseeing and more. A trip with kids to the beaches or a resort town will lead you to water parks or water-based sports and activities. Here are some of the theme parks and water parks and their locations – just to give you some tips and guides in planning your family trip: Bangkok: Line Village, a digital theme park of three storeys with characters and animal attractions from the app.; Siam Park City, Asia’s largest water park and the biggest amusement park in Thailand; Pathum Thani (central Thailand): Dream World with thrill and gentle rides, shows and activities in your childhood dreams. Pattaya: Ramayana Water Park, the biggest water park in Thailand. With more than 50 rides, the fun in this park is not just for the kids, adults too can have their own fun at a pool bar and water volleyball; Cartoon Network Amazone, Water fun meets world-renowned fantasy. Fun rides and activities with Cartoon Network favourite characters. Hua Hin: Vana Nava Hua Hin – Wet N Wild in the Water Jungle. With 20 wild water adventures in a lush green setting in Hua Hin beach resort with 5 giant water slides too. Cha-am Town, Pehtchaburi: Santorini Park. a re-creation of the white and blue charming Greek town, for great family trips, boutiques, shops and fun rides and activities.

Thailand is popularized as the “Land of Smiles” where you encounter smiling people in a friendly atmosphere everywhere you go. World travellers say Thailand is one place where they are not as intimidated striking up a conversation with the locals as in other destinations. Thais are generally shy but they smile at you on the street, especially if your eyes meet, they smile back at you!

Information Centre

Destinations

Discover Thailand's top must-see destinations & everything you need to know for your next trip to "the land of Smiles".

Follow our accommodation guide to choose the best places to stay during your holiday to suit your plans, budget and expectations.

Things To Do

Plan for an unforgettable holiday escapade and uncover the fascinating assortment of things to do and see in Thailand's most popular destinations as well as those lesser known travel spots and routes.

Thailand Family Holiday

12 days | meet rescued elephants, friendly locals and a giant buddha on this fun-filled family adventure..

Want a family getaway that’s a little different? From the colourful markets of Bangkok to the palm-fringed beaches of Hua Hin, introduce the kids to a new world on this Thailand trip with a twist. Watch rescued elephants splash in the mud at a nature park in Chiang Mai, see how other families live during a fun rural village visit, uncover the exciting history behind the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and try some new and yummy treats along the backstreets of Bangkok. Both children and adults alike will have a blast on this carefully designed itinerary that promises new friends, heaps of fun and plenty of free time to connect as a family.

Trip overview

• This trip has a fabulous pace to it. There's plenty of action, and lots of room for quality family time in which to play, swim or stroll in some of Thailand's most amazing coastal and jungle destinations.
• A long-tail boat trip on the canals is the perfect introduction to Bangkok. Follow it up with a visit to Wat Pho, where the larger-than-life reclining Buddha will blow you and your family’s mind.
• The food is excellent, there's a great spread of local restaurants, and your Ban Hua Tung village visit takes the hospitality to the next level with a traditional lunch cooked by the community. 
• The activities in Chiang Mai are both fun and educational. One minute you’ll be walking with rescued elephants, the next you're strolling through the sacred foothills of Chiang Dao learning about natural medicines.
• Let your expert leader take the hassle out of family travel as they guide you through the sights and bites of Thailand, so relax and hand over the responsibility – you deserve it.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation. Donations help educate school children on important environmental issues like climate change, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainability.
• Prepare for hot and sticky temperatures during the day, but cooler climates in the evening. Layers are the best way to tackle this. Be sure to also drink plenty of water and use sun protection.
• You and your family will visit several temples on this trip, which means covering up arms and shoulders as per the local custom. A light scarf is a great idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.
• Your overnight train journey (Day 4) is quite long. Make the most of it by checking out the scenery and chatting with local travellers. There's nothing quite like waking up on a sleeper train in a new and exciting destination. While bedding is supplied some families choose to bring their own sleep sheets.

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 5 pm. If you arrive early, there is plenty to see and do in this exciting city. Bangkok is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Perhaps take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in a Thai massage. After the formalities of the meeting, take the opportunity to introduce yourselves to your leader and the other families joining your tour and perhaps head out for a group dinner.

• Nouvo City Hotel Bangkok or similar (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Bangkok - Grand Palace - THB500
• Bangkok - Thai Massage - THB250
• Bangkok - Thai kickboxing exhibition - THB2200
• Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House - THB200

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information for each member of your family. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Today you will travel by longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River and explore the famous khlongs (canals) of Bangkok (approximately 1 hour). Life along these canals seems a world away from the busy streets of the capital. After that you will pay a visit to Wat Pho, one of the six most important temples in the country. It's home to the country's largest reclining Buddha, which is a seriously impressive sight. This place is also the gatekeeper of the secrets of Thai medicine and massage. After exploring the site, you and the family will take a private minivan to Kanchanaburi (approximately 2.5 hours) and check into your hotel. The hotel is situated where the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers converge. Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai'.

• Riverkwai Bridge Resort or similar (1 night)
• Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
• Bangkok - Wat Pho

Travel to Erawan National Park in the morning (approximately 1.5 hours each way). Located in western Thailand in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province, this national park boasts the incredible Erawan Falls, a famous seven-level waterfall of luminous turquoise pools and exotic tropical fish. It's a great place to explore or simply swim and relax. If you do some exploring of the lush surrounds, keep your eyes peeled for eagles, pheasants or leafbirds among many others who might be soaring above or perched in the treetops.

• Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park & Falls

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

If you are travelling in September, you will visit Sai Yok Noi Waterfall instead of Erawan National Park. Erawan will be closed for restoration during this time.

Transfer by minibus to the nearby city of Ayutthaya (approximately 2.5 hours). Once the capital of ancient Siam, Ayutthaya offers a great opportunity to stroll the World Heritage-listed ruins of this once magnificent city. There's time for a guided tour of the picturesque ruins and temples spread across the town. The ruins at Wat Phra Mahathat provide many photo opportunities and the Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in Ayutthaya. You will have access to a day room at a local hotel in Ayutthaya to have a swim in the hotel pool and freshen up before the train. Afterwards, board an overnight train to Chiang Mai (approximately 11 hours).

• Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
• Ayutthaya - Temple Ruins entrance & guided tour

During the overnight train you will be travelling in soft sleeper class, as per Intrepid style. Multishare compartments, air-conditioning, bunk beds, sheets and a pillow are provided. A curtain is installed at every berth which can offer privacy and more importantly, block the light that can interfere with sleep because the central lights are kept on through the night. Plug socket and reading light are available for every berth so passengers can charge their phone and laptop or read throughout their train ride. We recommend you bring a sleep mask and ear plugs if you are a light sleeper. There's also a food and drink service on board. Note that your baggage will travel in the carriage with you.

Wake up in Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city of Northern Thailand. As well as amazing temples and an interesting old town, the city is known for its friendly, smiling locals. Drive along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway (approximately 45 minutes). The rewards will justify the climb, as one of Thailand's most stunning temples reveals itself. This is Doi Suthep. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the city from up here. You might also be able to listen to the evening chants of the resident Buddhist monks while you're here. With free time in the evening, perhaps wander through the colourful night bazaar or visit one of the quality restaurants along the riverfront. In any case, don't miss out on the signature northern dish kao soy – yellow wheat noodles in a curry broth with chicken or beef.

• Estia Chiang Mai Hotel or Similar (1 night)
• Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance)
• Chiang Mai - Thai massage - THB200
• Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour - THB990
• Chiang Mai - Thai cooking course - THB1000

After breakfast we take the journey out to see the elephants - which will sure to be a highlight for the entire family. One and half hours outside of Chiang Mai, the elephant sanctuary is home to elephants who have been rescued. Upon arrival head out on a walk with a local guide into the forest to observe the elephants grazing and socializing, from a safe distance of course! The children will learn some new facts about Asian Elephants and meet their Mahouts. Your guide will deliver a "live" information session answering any questions you may have about conservation, elephant behavior, and interesting facts: like how much they eat? After some Thai snacks you will then head to the riverside where you can help fill feeding tubes with corn, sugar cane, grass, bananas and any other supplementary food on hand for the elephants.

We will have lunch at the Sanctuary before heading back to Chiang Mai arriving in the late afternoon. You will have some free time to maybe visit the night markets or take a wander around the city.

• Chiang Mai - Chang Chill Elephant Sanctuary day trip

The walk to the elephant sanctuary is around 1km over undulating ground and though rice paddies. Be prepared for epic scenery, as well as a bit of mud – especially if it has been raining. Good walking shoes are recommended (open or closed toe).

Set off early through the Chiang Dao Valley to the rural village of Ban Hua Tung (approximately 2 hours). Arrive at the warm and welcoming village where the community will invite you and your family for a truly unique experience. Once you’ve had some time to settle in, join local guides for a walk around the village, giving you the chance to learn about their agricultural practices and traditional basket weaving. Visit the forest which the local Hua Tung people manage together as part of a new community initiative. The biodiversity of the forest is protected by a sacred 'forest ordination' by Buddhist monks whereby trees are ordained as monks – the people nurture the forest, and the forest nurtures the people in return. There's a yearly bamboo harvest which raises money for the village. The locals take great pride in showing you the development of their village and the many different herbal medicines and wild foods in the forest. Join your hosts for a homemade lunch prepared by the community and learn a little more about their lives. Later in the day, make the short drive to the peaceful village of Chiang Dao, where you will spend the night.

• Marisa Resort Chiang Dao or similar (1 night)

Enjoy a free morning to enjoy your peaceful surroundings in the misty Chiang Dao. Perhaps take a walk through the lush jungle, have a swim in the pool or just kick back and relax at the hotel. Make your way back to Chiang Mai, arriving in time to catch the overnight train back to Bangkok.

Arrive into Bangkok around 7am this morning. After some breakfast at a local hotel, make the journey south to the beach town of Hua Hin (approximately 3 hours). With two days to enjoy this palm-fringed resort town, spend your free time exploring the numerous white sandy beaches by day and indulging in amazing food by night. This beautiful coastal spot is located right by a sophisticated city that has everything you need. But its slickness takes nothing away from the gorgeous beach and blue-green waters, which are perfect to laze around in. Hua Hin was once a sleepy fishing village before Thai royalty made it their beachside getaway in the 1920’s. Hin Beach is the main strip – grab a coconut, settle in and be sure to sample the delicious Thom Kha Talay (Spicy Seafood Coconut Soup).

• Baan Talay Dao Resort or Similar (1 night)

Today is free to spend as you please. A bicycle tour is always an excellent choice for the family, and there are many nearby vineyards and mountainous trails to explore, depending on how far you would like to venture. You might like to just stay at the beach and soak up the atmosphere of Thailand's original coastal resort. Perhaps stroll north on the main shore to check out some of the opulent Victorian-style garden estates. The day market, Chatchai, is well worth a visit, boasting fresh fruit, delicious donuts and traditional sweetened coffee.

Return by minivan to Bangkok and enjoy an afternoon of free time. The shopping is excellent in Bangkok, and the malls sometimes feel like their own kind of theme park. Tonight, why not head out for a farewell dinner and take the opportunity to look back on the week’s adventures with your family and new-found friends.

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are free to depart at anytime following check-out. If you have time, there’s still plenty to enjoy in this bustling capital, ask your leader for their recommendations on the best family-friendly activities.

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner

Private Minivan, Longtail boat, Overnight sleeper train

Hotel (9 nights), Overnight sleeper train (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Minimum age: 5 years old. Please note that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian. 2. A discount of 10% applies on this trip to children 17 or younger at the time of travel. 3. This trip starts with a welcome meeting at 5 pm on Day 1 in Bangkok. This trip ends on Day 12 and you are free to leave at any time. 4. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 (Overnight Train) and Day 8 (Overnight Train) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Top 7 Destinations in Thailand for a Family Trip

• Kanchanaburi

Thailand is an ideal destination for a family trip. Its scenic islands, beautiful beaches, intriguing history, and incredible food will ensure both children and adults enjoy their time in the "Land of Smiles."

Here are the top 7 destinations in Thailand, ideal for a family trip. Read on for some inspiration.

As the capital city, Bangkok tops the list of destinations for a family trip to Thailand. You can also learn more about the country and its Buddhist culture in Bangkok.

Bangkok has many renowned Buddhist temples that are worth a visit. Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) are considered national treasures.

The iconic Grand Palace is a great place to learn about Thailand's history and culture. The building brings together the essence of Thai architecture, painting, sculpture, and decoration. It is the best-preserved and largest palace with the most ethnic characteristics in Thailand.

Exploring Bangkok's special markets will also be an enjoyable activity for kids and adults.

Do visit Thailand's most popular floating market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Vendors can be seen rowing long-tail boats along the narrow canals to sell all kinds of food.

The other special market in Bangkok is Maeklong Railway Market. It is a traditional Thai market occupying a part of a train line. Watching a train pass through the active market several times a day is a unique experience!

Read further about the top things to do with kids in Bangkok .

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

2. Chiang Mai

If you are looking forward to spending quality time with your children, then head to Chiang Mai. Located in northern Thailand, it is a city that is all about relaxing and being one with nature.

One of the highlights of the tour is interacting with elephants in the jungle. Chiang Mai has three friendly and ethical elephant sanctuaries , where you can join the day volunteer program with your kids.

In the program, you and your kids will gain a special understanding of elephants' daily lives and behaviors. As part of the program, you can make herbal medicine balls, feed the elephants, walk them to the river, and brush and bathe them. It will be an unforgettable experience for your family.

Making floating lanterns and releasing them into the sky is another unmissable experience. It is a part of the traditional celebration of the Loy Krathong festival . Thai people make their own lanterns and release them during that festival.

3. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi lies in West Thailand. It is considered the most beautiful province in Thailand. Most of its areas are plateaus, especially in the north, with rolling hills, dense forests, rivers, waterfalls, and national parks.

One of the main attractions in Kanchanaburi is the Thai–Burma Railway, also called the Death Railway. The Death Railway was built by Japan to link Bangkok and Rangoon for the occupation of Burma during World War II.

The Death Railway got its name because a large number of laborers died during the construction of the railway line. Hop into the train and enjoy a scenic ride over the Kwai Noi River, on the original wooden viaduct, and other attractions.

There are many national parks in Kanchanaburi. A visit to the Erawan National Park is a must, especially for families with children. You can enjoy some gentle trekking in the forest, splash around in the water, and relax while spotting some wild monkeys.

4. Ayutthaya

The historic city of Ayutthaya is located in central Thailand. It used to be the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and was once one of the largest cities in the world, having a prosperous history for over hundreds of years, Now, in the Ayutthaya Historical Park , you will see the ruins of temples and palaces from those ancient times.

Ayutthaya is a World Heritage Site. Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet are the two important attractions inside the park. A Buddha head among the tree roots at Wat Mahathat is also a big draw.

5. Koh Samui

Don't forget to plan for some happy beach time when planning your family trip to Thailand. Thailand is bounded on the southeast by the Gulf of Thailand and on the southwest by the Andaman Sea, which are speckled with numerous islands.

Koh Samui is one of the main islands in the Gulf of Thailand. It is usually preferred by families who want a quiet and relaxing holiday. Instead of focusing on entertainment and nightlife, Koh Samui advocates a pristine, natural, relaxing, and harmonious beach life.

Unlike Phuket, Koh Samui's rainy season is reversed. July to September is the best time to visit Koh Samui. January to March is also a good time to visit the island.

Facing the Andaman Sea, Phuket is one of the largest islands in Thailand. It is more suitable for a family with young kids. Unlike Koh Samui, Phuket is vibrant and has a bustling nightlife.

Phuket is where all the fun is! There are plenty of activities for both adults and kids. Enjoy a variety of watersports, watch cultural shows, go island hopping, visit the Phuket Aquarium, or tour across the city on bikes.

Phuket receives rain from July to September, so the best time to visit is from October to March.

If you have trouble choosing between Phuket and Koh Samui, you can read Phuket vs Koh Samui: Which Is a Better Vacation Destination .

Alternatively, you can use our Create My Trip service to tell us your requirements and interests, and our travel experts will reach out to you with suggestions.

7. Khao Yai

If your family loves nature trails, add Khao Yai to the trip. Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's first national park and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

Covering an area of 2,168 sq km (837 sq mi), Khao Yai has an idyllic landscape and fresh air. It has a wildlife reserve with more than 3,000 species of plants, 300 species of birds, and more than 60 species of mammals.

Take a safari to explore the wilderness, visit a viewpoint, or simply enjoy stunning views of Haew Suwat Waterfall.

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Thailand Family Holidays

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Spectacular beach resorts in the south and thrilling adventures in the north of the country, including elephant encounters and gorgeous caves to explore, make Thailand a great bet with children of all ages.

If you can't choose between these two very different kinds of trip, don't despair – c heap domestic flights make it easy to combine the jungles of the north with the southern beaches for the perfect two-centre family holiday. If considering Thailand with younger children, however, take into account the long flight and need for several jabs, and the rather basic conditions involved in adventure trips. And see the latest  Foreign & Commonwealth Office ( fco.gov.uk ) advice on travel to Thailand.

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Things to do with kids in Thailand

Make a stop-off or a city break in  Bangkok  on your way to northern or southern Thailand with older kids (with younger kids, for whom the capital can be overwhelming, head straight to the beaches). Be sure to visit Bangkok's spectacular Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Grand Palace and Temple of Wat Pho with its massive reclining Buddha. Stopping at one of the temples along the river to feed one of the vast number of huge fish is also great fun for kids.

For a beach holiday close to Bangkok, try Pattaya City about two hours' drive away.

Head north to Chiang Mai for a glimpse of the jungles of Thailand at their best. Often reached on adventure trips by overnight sleeper train, Chiang Mai is easily accessible with younger children via domestic flights taking around one hour from Bangkok. Sample the food at Chiang Mai’s famous night market and marvel at more fantastic temples before heading into the jungle to try your hand at bamboo-rafting. Don’t miss a day-trip from Chiang Mai to the ethical  Elephant Nature Park , a unique conservation project and rescue centre where you can spend the day learning about elephants (a warning: the stories of their mistreatment before arriving here can be upsetting for kids). 

If you’re taking part in an adventure trip (see Best Organised Trips tab), Chiang Mai is your likely departure point for your stay with a local hill tribe. Spending a night in a local village provides a unique glimpse into another way of life, but very basic accommodation makes this better suited to those travelling with older kids. Try Chiang Rai about five hours from Chiang Mai in the far north of the country – a great place to experience Thai culture, perhaps meeting some of the indigenous Akha tribe.

Get some R&R on the islands and white-sand beaches of southern Thailand. The resorts of the Andaman coast are some of the best options for those travelling with children. Phuket , the largest and perhaps best-known of Thailand’s islands, caters for all tastes and budgets – avoid the seedy nightlife of Patong and head for the resorts of Karon and Kata, or if your budget allows, Surin and Ao Bang Thao. The developed nature of Phuket means children are well catered for, with kayaking, rafting and snorkelling all readily available. Boat trips to the surrounding islands offer a great chance to experience the Andamans' fantastic marine life.

If you’re travelling with older children and teens, head to the  Similan and Surin Islands north of Phuket for some of the world’s best scuba-diving and the opportunity to spot the elusive whale shark. Day-trips are available from Phuket but live-aboard cruises make the best of the islands (age suitability varies by trip).

For an ‘authentic’ island experience, head east of Phuket to the island of Ko Phi-Phi  off Krabi ,  but avoid Phi-Phi town itself in favour of one of the more secluded resorts, which has access to fantastic kayaking and snorkelling. Or stick to Krabi itself – its  Railay Beach mixes spectacular scenery with luxurious hotels.

Or on the south-eastern Gulf of Thailand coast, try the islands of Ko Pha-Ngan and Ko Samui (Koh Samui), which are some of Thailand’s most popular destinations. Both have hotels well equipped for children and plenty of family-friendly activities, including boat trips, trekking and scuba diving for different ages. But do avoid Ko Pha-Ngan during the monthly full moon parties, when 10,000 to 30,000 backpackers descend on Haad Rin.

The ethical Elephant Nature Park.

Thai cuisine consists mainly of fresh and fragrant curries – red, green and Massaman with meat, seafood or vegetables  are all delicious . Fish is also a reliable child-friendly option at Thailand's beach resorts, while Western favourites are readily available except in the middle of the jungle.

An Akah family in Chiang Rai.

When to go to Thailand

Thailand with kids is a possibility at any time of year, but the timing of the dry season makes the country the perfect destination for a Christmas family holiday.  The UK winter is generally considered the best time to hit the beaches of the south, with the Andaman coast (including Phuket and Krabi) experiencing a dry season November–April and a wet season May–October, and the south-western G ulf of Thailand  coast and Ko Samui having their dry season from December and April and their wet season from May to November. 

Meanwhile, Chiang Mai in the north is hot between March and May, with temperatures averaging 34–36°C. This is followed by a rainy season from June to October and a cooler period between November and February. During these months, the temperature averages 29°C, but this can fall considerably at night.

Additionally, increasing numbers of parents are choosing Thailand for a long-haul summer holiday with kids on the basis that you can often save money when compared with Mediterranean destinations due to low-season rates combined with the lower cost of living in much of Asia. If you do travel in Thailand's monsoon season of July and August, you'll experience short, intense bursts of rain, mainly in the morning, but the rest of the day you can head for the beaches to enjoy the sunshine without the crowds.

Bamboo raft in Chiang Mai.

Thailand can be a surprisingly affordable family holiday destination, especially during our main school holidays. Flights start at less than £500pp, although you will inevitably pay more in school holidays.

Accommodation prices vary tremendously, but a large luxury villa with staff can be a steal when shared between two or more families. In terms of eating out, a decent evening meal costs just £5–10pp.

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The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Great Weather, Low Prices, and Fun Festivals

Here's when to plan your trip based on what you want to see and do.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

The Best Times to Visit Thailand for Smaller Crowds

The best times to visit thailand for great weather, the best times to visit thailand for lower prices, the best times to visit thailand for festivals, the best times to visit thailand for scuba diving, the best times to visit thailand for island-hopping, the best times to visit thailand for shopping, worst times to visit thailand.

Thailand is one of the most accessible and well-loved destinations in Southeast Asia. It's a great place to visit any time of year, but the best season for island-hopping, festivals, and scuba diving in the Andaman Sea is the dry season, November through March.

Jack Tydeman , a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Southeast Asia specialist for Audley Travel , says this tropical country has only two distinct seasons. "It is typically warm all year round," he says, but winter is "considered the best time to travel to the majority of the country. April is the hottest month in Thailand before the country moves into the wetter season from May through October."

Here's a breakdown of Thailand's main travel seasons:

• High Season: November to March
• Shoulder Seasons: April to June and the month of October
• Low Season: July to September

Before you book your jungle tree house and island boat tour, learn about the best times to visit Thailand.

Michela Buttignol/Travel + Leisure

Thailand's low season coincides with monsoon season. With the exception of the Thai islands, which draw college students from Australia and Europe during their summer breaks, the wet and muggy climate keeps many tourists away between July and September. Visiting Thailand during this quiet time has its perks: You'll get cheaper accommodations, better access to restaurants and activities typically inundated by vacationers, and potentially more of a local experience. At the same time, there are limitations. Rains could come in brief cloudbursts, or they could come in days-long downpours that affect boat service and island access. Tours are less abundant, and some hotels even close during the off-season, so be sure to plan ahead if you're considering a trip in the summer.

For ideal weather, visit Thailand during the dry season, which runs from November through March in most of the country, sometimes even lasting until April or May. A major exception is the Lower Gulf — home to the islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao — which is rainiest from September through December.

On the Andaman coast, the coolest, most comfortable weather is around November to February, with average temperatures in the 80s and little chance of rain. This means clear, blue waters and gorgeous vegetation quenched from monsoon season.

As for the low season, it's best to temper your expectations. "It is possible to travel over the summer months. However, you may see some short, sharp showers," Tydeman says. "As the east coast of Thailand has its own unique weather patterns, summer is actually the drier season there."

Thailand is a relatively affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers may find the steepest discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours during the low season, July to September.

"The low season does have its advantages, as it's quieter and the rates are typically lower. This makes Thailand a great-value destination during the summer," says Tydeman. While this time of year is generally wetter, you might even get better natural scenery. "Summer is now commonly referred to as 'green season' due to the rains turning the countryside green and filling the rivers and waterfalls."

Travelers should try to experience at least one of Thailand's many festivals, which celebrate everything from flowers and fruit to monkeys and elephants. Two of the most beloved are November's lantern festivals: Yi Peng, during which participants release thousands of rice-paper lanterns into the sky, and Loy Krathong, when banana-leaf baskets are filled with flowers and burning candles and released onto lakes, rivers, and canals. Chiang Mai is the Yi Peng epicenter, and Loy Krathong is celebrated across the country.

The Lunar New Year in January or February turns Bangkok's Chinatown into a sea of dragons, drummers, worshippers, and visitors, all converging under the glow of firecrackers and red lanterns. Also in February is the three-day Flower Festival in Chiang Mai, which features a parade of elaborately decorated floats.

Lantern Festivals of Thailand

Songkran (aka the Water Splashing Festival) ushers in the Thai New Year in mid-April with parades, parties, and performances across the country. Songkran turns Thailand into "one big water fight," Tydeman says. "It also coincides with the hottest month of the year, so it's a perfect excuse to get wet."

The Vegetarian Festival takes place in late September or early October and commemorates a nine-day abstinence from meat in honor of the Nine Emperor Gods of Taoism.

Divers from all over the world flock to Thailand to explore the country's famous underwater sites and stunning marine parks. Thailand's east coast is largely dive-friendly all year round. If you plan to dive in the Andaman Sea, such as from the extraordinary Similan and Surin Islands, time the trip between November and April, when the seas are calm and visibility is clearest. Also keep in mind that Similan and Surin marine parks close from mid-May to mid-October.

Boating from one jungle-topped limestone island to another is a great way to explore Thailand, but seasonal downpours can put the kibosh on nautical fun. Some southern Andaman resorts even close for the rainy season.

"The islands off the west coast, like Phuket, are best to visit in the winter months, whereas the islands off the east coast, like Ko Samui, are great to visit in the summer," says Tydeman. This means you should time your bouncing around Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Lanta, and other Andaman isles between late October (when the rains taper off) and May or June. Conversely, Gulf of Thailand idylls Ko Samui, Ko Tao, and Ko Pha-ngan are at their rainiest and windiest between October and December.

No matter what time of year you visit Thailand, try to be in Bangkok on a weekend so you can experience the vast Chatuchak Weekend Market . Many of the stalls are covered, so you can even go on a rainy day. Tydeman also recommends visiting Bangkok's night markets, which offer "everything from original artwork and designer bags to kitschy souvenirs and secondhand books."

Chiang Mai 's weekend markets deserve a look as well. Every Saturday night, Wua Lai Road (just south of the Old City) closes to traffic and hosts silversmiths, wood carvers, clothing purveyors, sketch artists, and performing musicians. On Sundays, the scene essentially repeats itself along the length of Ratchadamnoen Road, which bustles with artists, food vendors, and massage stations.

There is objectively no bad time to visit Thailand. Each season has its benefits, but most people avoid traveling during the heaviest monsoons, which can disrupt public transportation and make exploring Thailand's stunning natural sites wildly uncomfortable (if not impossible). Forget renting a motorbike or riding ferries during the wet season. Though you're more likely to snag accommodations for cheap, you're liable to spend more time at your hotel than you bargained for, waiting for the downpours to pass. If you're averse to heavy rains and thick humidity on vacation, avoid planning a trip to Thailand in August and September.

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$42K Raised For Family Of NJ Man Killed In 'Tragic Accident' Vacationing In Thailand

Michael Basciano, a 34-year-old Mount Olive native, died while on vacation in Thailand on Tuesday, July 9, according to his obituary at the Dangler Funeral Home website.

Michael Basciano and his wife, Karen.

Basciano died in a "tragic accident," according to a fundraiser set up to support his family, though additional details have not been made available. As of Wednesday, Aug. 7, the fundraiser has raised more than $42,000.

Basciano graduated Mount Olive High School in 2008 and worked in construction management before going into finance, spending the last nine years at Asset Based Lending, his obituary reads. 

Last year Basciano married his wife, Karen, who survives him, and they enjoyed traveling the world together and spending time with their dog, Kale, according to his obituary.

"Mike served as a beacon of strength for all those around him," Jennifer Shaddock, who organized the fundraiser, wrote. 

"Whether you knew Mike for years or met him only minutes ago, he treated you with kindness and was sure to make you laugh. Mike spent his life demonstrating compassion and generosity to this world. We hope to honor his generosity with your donations and support."

Basciano is also survived by his mother, Theresa, his siblings, Vinnie, Michelle and Christopher, his grandmother, Eleanor and numerous other family and friends, his obituary reads.

A celebration of life was held on Friday, Aug. 2 at Dangler Funeral Home in Morris Plains, according to his obituary.

To view his obituary, click here. To view the fundraiser, click here.

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